It’s taken some time for new Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker to fill out his coaching staff, but that’s a good thing. The first-time DC chose not to retain any of Matt Eberflus’ holdovers and instead has cast a wide net across both the NFL and college ranks.
After previously agreeing to terms with Cardinals cornerbacks coach Ryan Smith and former Packers defensive passing game coordinator Derrick Ansley (both for the same positions), Parker and Brian Schottenheimer have now turned to a former Cowboy for their next hire.
Multiple reports have confirmed that the Cowboys hired Marcus Dixon as their defensive line coach.
Signed by Dallas as an undrafted free agent out of Hampton in 2015, Dixon never appeared in a game, but he's no stranger to the pressure that comes with The Star.
Cowboys hire former DT Marcus Dixon to coach their defensive line
Dixon replaces Aaron Whitecotton, who left Dallas after one season to rejoin Robert Saleh on the Titans’ staff as defensive line coach and run game coordinator.
After some time in the college ranks, Dixon's NFL coaching career began in 2021 as the LA Rams' assistant defensive line coach.
The Broncos wasted no time poaching Dixon the following year, making him their DL coach. That's where he crossed paths with Christian Parker, who was busy coaching up the likes of Patrick Surtain and Justin Simmons in Denver's secondary.
Dixon then enjoyed a successful two years as the Vikings' defensive line coach.
Since 2025, Minnesota's 98 sacks are the second-most in the NFL, and he is credited with turning former UFL player Jalen Redmond into a starter last season. Redmond racked up 6.5 sacks, five batted passes, and a 72.7 run-defense grade that ranked 10th out of 134 interior defenders, per PFF.
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Another sneaky benefit of the Dixon hire? It cuts Dan Quinn and the Commanders off at the pass. After Washington hired Vikings pass game coordinator Daronte Jones, who also interviewed in Dallas, it’s hard to imagine Dixon wouldn’t have been on his short list.
You also have to love that Dixon has spent time under Vic Fangio and Brian Flores, who are widely recognized as the two best and cutting-edge defensive coordinators in the NFL.
The Cowboys' defensive line was a major letdown in 2025. Everyone not named Quinnen Williams underperformed relative to expectations. They desperately needed a new voice, and Dixon brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record.
And it only helps that he knows what it's like to play for one of the biggest brands in the world of sports.