The Dallas Cowboys are now in the market for a defensive coordinator. This comes after an announcement revealing that Dan Quinn was going to be the next head coach of the Washington Commanders. So, who is the most likely person to take that gig? Let’s take a look at three of the most notable candidates.
1. Mike Vrabel
Outside of Bill Belichick, one of the most notable coaches still available is Mike Vrabel. He was the head coach of the Tennessee Titans for six years before being fired at the end of the 2023 NFL season. Now, Vrabel is still looking for a coaching job after failing to secure another head coach position.
Vrabel was a linebacker in the NFL for 14 seasons from 1997-2010. Since then, he has been coaching football in various positions at both the college level and the pros. He could potentially be the spark that the Cowboys need to move forward from losing Quinn.
2. Wink Martindale
One candidate we need to keep an eye on is Wink Martindale. He was the defensive coordinator for the New York Giants the last two seasons before parting ways with the team. Now, he is a very experienced DC still on the market.
For one thing, he has been coaching football since 1986. On top of this, Martindale has a score to settle with the Giants after reported drama between him and Giants head coach Brian Daboll. What better way to get revenge than to take the DC job for the Giants’ direct rival?
3. Al Harris
Finally, we need to consider some in-house candidates available for this position. While Al Harris is not the only worthy candidate on the Dallas Cowboys’ coaching staff, he is one of the most notable. Why is this?
For starters, he has been a terrific defensive backs coach for the Cowboys. Harris has been credited with developing two of the better cornerbacks in the game. These are Treyvon Diggs and DaRon Bland respectively. Both have put up historical single-season numbers during Harris’ tenure.
He has been the Cowboys’ defensive backs coach for the last four seasons. Harris was also a cornerback in the NFL for 15 seasons. If he gets an opportunity to be the defensive coordinator, there is a chance he can help develop a wider range of players. Plus, use them to the best of their abilities.
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