Jerry Jones Uses Humor to Clarify Who Controls Cowboys’ Defensive Coordinator Decision

Jerry Jones again made headlines by discussing the Dallas Cowboys’ search for a new defensive coordinator after Matt Eberflus’ termination. Jones used comedy and clarity to clarify who controlled the hiring process during the Cowboys’ end-of-season press conference, invoking former President Donald Trump and Venezuela.

After a poor defensive season, the Cowboys released Eberflus after one season. Dallas was pressured to improve its defense after finishing at the bottom of the league in overall yards allowed and pass defense. Questions rapidly arose regarding how much power head coach Brian Schottenheimer would have in choosing the next defensive coordinator.

Jones first dodged the question of whether Schottenheimer could hire. Instead, he joked that Trump had said he was “running Venezuela.” The comment made everyone chuckle, even Schottenheimer, but it showed Jones’ penchant to deflect before addressing real issues.

Trump’s statement after Nicolás Maduro and his wife were reportedly arrested for drug and weapons charges in Venezuela was referenced. Trump later said the US would monitor the country until a safe and orderly transition. Jones joked before explaining the Cowboys’ internal decision-making process.

Jones explained more directly and seriously after the joke. He stressed that Schottenheimer was instrumental in hiring Matt Eberflus and that the decision was not forced on him. Jones said Eberflus and the team’s executive leadership, including Stephen Jones, would not have been hired without Schottenheimer’s support. Jones said the Cowboys hired coaches to collaborate, not control.

Jones said he was enthused by the coaching staff’s makeup and distinctiveness when Eberflus was hired. Jones’ comments suggested that the process was sound, even though the outcomes were disappointing.

Cowboys’ defensive troubles were obvious on the field. Total defense was 30th, surrendering 377 yards per game. The poorest in the league, the secondary allowed over 250 passing yards per game. Those stats showed why the company needed a change and why the forthcoming coordinator job is crucial to the franchise’s future.

Though humorous, Jones’ comments underlined a vital message: Brian Schottenheimer is deeply involved in developing his coaching staff, and the next defensive coordinator will be chosen collaboratively. As the Cowboys try to rebound defensively, they must identify a captain who can address their shortcomings and restore balance to a contending club.