Head coach Brian Schottenheimer knows the type of person he wants running the Cowboys defense.
Most of us knew midway through the 2025 season that Matt Eberflus wouldn't be back as Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator.
With Eberflus now relieved of his duties, attention turns to the coordinator search.
And yes, it is one that should cast a wide net. Not three or four like last offseason.
But what is it exactly that the Cowboys are looking for?
Does it have to be someone who was a previous head coach, because Dan Quinn and Eberflus both were? Or would a first timer be on the cards, similarly to Brian Schottenheimer?
"No, it's not a requirement having been a head coach, and yes, it's possible to have a first-time coordinator," Jerry Jones said.
Ok. So, all options are open. That is a good thing.
In fact, our Mike Fisher is hinting at a very "open option.'' ... and while Fish is soft-pedaling the news ... we're pretty sure this is sourced information from inside The Star.
Hmm. The "wide net'' extends all the way to Dallas considering bringing in a college coach to help the defense, as it did a year ago with the hiring of O-line coach Conor Riley?
Interesting.
But now what traits are the Cowboys looking for?
With Jerry having his hand on the wheel with Eberflus' appointment, Schottenheimer detailed what he wants in his next defensive coordinator.
"I think a teacher," Schottenheimer said. "We want to cast a wide net of candidates and find someone that's a great teacher, great communicator, someone that's passionate about football."
That seems fine.
But then Schottenheimer added this. ...
"The ability to take what is complicated information, we want guys that can say complicated information in a simple manner," he added. "I say something to you that you don't understand, I need the ability to say it a different way. The same message, but say it a different way. That's the starting point for me."
Hmm, we are getting a lay of the land now. ... as we're told Dallas will begin making calls this week.
We say that "blue-chip'' interviews would include the likes of Brian Flores and Jim Schwartz ... while also acknowledging that both of them have a chance to be head coaches.
It is clear the type of person Schottenheimer wants, and the fact that he said he wants to cast a wide net is music to our ears. It also hints that he is the captain of this ship.
Yes, Jerry and Stephen will get a say, but it appears this is Schottenheimer's race.
And we like the sound of that.