Dallas Cowboys Start Interviews for Christian Parker’s Defensive Staff Roles
The Dallas Cowboys are moving forward with their coaching staff for the 2026 season. After hiring Christian Parker as the new defensive coordinator, the franchise is actively conducting interviews to fill defensive assistant roles. A key candidate for these positions is Marcus Dixon, currently serving as a defensive assistant with the Minnesota Vikings.
Dallas Cowboys Defensive Staff Interviews
Reports indicate that Marcus Dixon, who has coached the Vikings’ defensive line for the past two seasons, is set to interview for a position. Under his guidance, Minnesota’s defense allowed an average of only 93.5 rushing yards per game in 2024, marking the second-best performance in the league. Even in a challenging 2025 season for the Vikings, Dixon’s unit was recognized as one of the top ten defensive lines according to Pro Football Focus.
Background on Marcus Dixon
- Coached for the Vikings (2024-2025)
- Previous stint with the Denver Broncos as defensive line coach (two seasons)
- Played in the NFL from 2010-2012; originally signed by the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2008
Additionally, Ronell Williams, an assistant linebackers coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, is another candidate expected to interview for a role in Parker’s defensive staff. Williams has an extensive coaching background, including time as a defensive quality control coach for the Chicago Bears from 2019 to 2022 before joining the Eagles in 2023.
Ronell Williams’ Coaching Experience
- Defensive quality control coach with the Bears (2019-2022)
- Joined Eagles coaching staff in 2023
- Promoted to assistant linebackers/defensive quality control coach in 2024
Aaron Whitecotton, the Cowboys’ current defensive line coach, has generated interest from other teams, notably the Tennessee Titans. This development has prompted the Cowboys to initiate their search for a replacement.
Looking Ahead
The Dallas Cowboys are in a transition phase, with several assistants exploring opportunities elsewhere. They will also be attending the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, to scout potential talent.
As the Cowboys look to improve their defensive performance, Parker’s strategies and the upcoming coaching hires will be pivotal. The organization aims to rebuild and strengthen a defense that has faced challenges in recent years.
