The future of Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus hangs in the balance as the team approaches the final three games of the season. Following a disappointing performance against the Philadelphia Eagles on September 4, 2025, where the Cowboys lost 24-20, Eberflus expressed his frustration on a recent radio show. He highlighted the need for improvement, particularly in how opposing quarterbacks have performed against Dallas this year.
Eberflus’s comments have sparked discussions about his evaluation and the potential for a change in leadership. Brian Schottenheimer, the offensive coordinator, is expected to play a key role in assessing Eberflus and the entire coaching staff in the coming weeks. Troy Aikman, a former Cowboys quarterback, emphasized that he would prefer Schottenheimer to lead the review process rather than leaving it solely in the hands of team owner Jerry Jones.
The typical structure of NFL teams sees head coaches making decisions about their staff. However, the Cowboys’ situation is unique, as Jones has often had the final say on coaching decisions. This has raised questions about whether Eberflus can survive the evaluation period, especially given the challenges the defense has faced this season.
As the Cowboys prepare for their upcoming matches, including a crucial game against the talented Los Angeles Chargers, the stakes are high. The team has allowed an alarming average of 30 points per game, a record for the franchise. To avoid joining a list of historically poor defensive teams, Dallas must restrict its opponents to fewer than 39 points in their remaining games.
Defensive performance has been a concern for the Cowboys, with the squad allowing 420 points this season. The last time the team faced such significant scrutiny was during the 2010 season, when defensive issues ultimately led to the dismissal of head coach Wade Phillips. The Cowboys have cycled through multiple defensive coordinators in recent years, raising concerns about continuity and effectiveness.
The upcoming games against the Chargers, as well as struggling teams like the Washington Commanders and New York Giants, will be critical for Eberflus. Observers will be keen to see if the defense can make necessary adjustments or if the coaching staff will face further scrutiny.
With the playoffs on the line and fan expectations high, the Cowboys’ coaching staff must find a way to turn the season around. The organization’s future direction may hinge on how Eberflus and his unit perform in these final weeks. The stakes are not just about winning games; they are also about the long-term strategy and stability of the coaching staff in Dallas.
As the Cowboys approach late December, the focus remains on Eberflus and the potential for new leadership within the coaching ranks. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this is a turning point for the team or another chapter in a season filled with challenges.