Dallas Cowboys hire Mike Pettine to bolster struggling defense

The Dallas Cowboys have hired veteran coach Mike Pettine as a senior defensive assistant to support defensive coordinator Christian Parker. The move follows a difficult start to the season, including a 24-16 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that left the team with a 2-3 record.

Pettine, 60, brings extensive NFL experience, having previously served as a defensive coordinator for the New York Jets, Buffalo Bills, and Green Bay Packers, and as head coach for the Cleveland Browns. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer noted that Pettine’s familiarity with the 3-4 defensive system makes him an ideal fit to provide veteran counsel to Parker.

The defensive struggles have been significant, with the unit ranking poorly in rushing and total defense. Amid these challenges, the team reported a players-only meeting to address performance issues, and cornerback DaRon Bland was noted as absent from recent practice. Additionally, public criticism has been directed at owner Jerry Jones regarding the franchise's investment in coaching staff versus star players.