Jerry Jones didn't mince his words regarding Dallas' defensive failures after Matt Eberflus' firing on Tuesday. The Cowboys owner made it visible that major changes are coming after a flop season.
Eberflus served as defensive coordinator for one season before he was relieved of his role. Dallas (7-9) allowed 511 points, the most in franchise's history.
Jones' comments were shared by ESPN's Adam Schefter on X.
"Having known Matt Eberflus for decades now, we have tremendous respect and appreciation for him as a coach and a person," Jones said.
"After reviewing and discussing the results of our defensive performance this season, though, it was clear that change is needed. This is the first step in that process, and we will continue that review as it applies to reaching our much higher expectations."
The Cowboys allowed 30.1 points per game. They finished dead last in the league in yards surrendered at 377 per game.
Dallas becomes carousel for defensive coordinators following historic collapse under Matt Eberflus
The Cowboys will look for their fourth defensive coordinator in four seasons. Dan Quinn had the job in 2023, Mike Zimmer took over in 2024 and Matt Eberflus lasted just one year.
Dallas traded All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons in August. The Pass never became fit, ending with 35 sacks for the season.
The front office tried to sort things by trading for Pro Bowl defensive tackle Quinnen Williams midseason. Logan Wilson also arrived from Cincinnati, but he did not play a single snap in the Week 17 victory over Washington.
Opponents found the end zone or kicked field goals on 91 of 177 drives. Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer took full blame for his failures even after Dak Prescott's 4,552 passing yards and 30 touchdowns on offense.
The team owns two first-round picks in the 2026 draft.