The Dallas Cowboys’ offseason reset has already hit an early obstacle, as owner Jerry Jones saw his first major target slip through his fingers. Dallas moved quickly after parting ways with Matt Eberflus, but an attempt to line up a proven defensive mind was firmly shut down, underscoring how competitive this year’s coaching market will be.
Following a disappointing 2025 campaign in which the Dallas Cowboys finished near the bottom of the league defensively, the front office prioritized finding an experienced coordinator who could stabilize the unit. One of the first names to emerge was Jeff Ulbrich, currently under contract with the Atlanta Falcons.
According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, Dallas formally requested permission to interview Ulbrich, only to be denied. Archer reported, “The Cowboys were denied by Atlanta to talk with Jeff Ulbrich for DC job, according to sources. He remains under contract with the Falcons despite their search for a head coach. A potential interview can be revisited later if they hire a HC, who has a different coordinator in mind.”
Atlanta’s stance is hardly surprising. Falcons owner Arthur Blank publicly praised Ulbrich’s impact on the team’s defense earlier this week.
“Jeff Ulbrich, in my view, did a really fine job for us this year,” Blank said. “You can certainly look at the record of sacks, and just the overall performance of defense was definitely better than what it had been in the past.”
Statistically, Ulbrich made a strong case to remain protected. Atlanta finished second in the NFL in sacks and ranked comfortably inside the top half of the league in yards allowed, a sharp turnaround that made him one of the most sought-after assistants this offseason.
Alternative options emerge as Dallas reassesses
With Ulbrich temporarily off the table, speculation has shifted toward other potential candidates. ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith floated a bold idea on television, suggesting that Dallas should pursue Rex Ryan, who is currently working in media.
“I think they should hire Rex Ryan from ESPN,” Smith said. “Rex Ryan is one of the elite defensive minds in football. And Jerry Jones should hire him… not just because of his football acumen, but also his personality. He’ll get in people’s [expletive] and hold them accountable.”
While Ryan’s résumé and reputation are undeniable, league observers believe that suggestion may be more television-friendly than realistic. Instead, another name quietly gaining traction is Brian Flores of the Minnesota Vikings, whose aggressive defensive schemes have drawn praise around the league.
For now, Dallas finds itself recalibrating after an early rejection. The setback serves as a reminder that even with Jones’ influence, nothing is guaranteed in a crowded coaching market. As the Cowboys continue their search, the pressure remains squarely on the organization to find the right leader capable of restoring a defense that struggled mightily just one season ago.
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