Robert Saleh firing could give Cowboys perfect 2025 defensive coordinator

It seems unlikely that Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer is going to last very long in his current role. On top of the fact that he signed a short-term contract and is almost 70 years old, Mike McCarthy getting fired would likely be enough to cause even more turnover on the staff.

While there have been some improvements made over the last few games, the unit as a whole seems very lackluster. Zimmer will need to get his unit performing at peak efficiency if he wants to make his second stint in Dallas anything more than just a one-year thing.

While there will be a handful of possible improvements on the market, one name who stands out is recently fired ex-New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh. While he had a 20-36 record as a head coach, he will likely have his pick of defensive coordinator jobs when he chooses to look for work.

With Saleh likely to get interest from those around the Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay coaching trees in the offseason, the Cowboys will need to compete for his services. Looking at his defenses, the Cowboys should consider trying to scoop him up before someone else does.

Cowboys must consider Robert Saleh as defensive coordinator in 2025

Saleh may have struggled on offense due to poor quarterback play and a lack of adjustment, but his defenses were elite. Since he arrived in New York in 2021, the Jets had the fewest points per drive allowed and best EPA per play in the league despite being on the field constantly.

Saleh's big advantage is being able to identify talent both early and late in the draft. The Jets defense flaunts stars like Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams that were selected early in the draft, but castoffs like Quincy Williams, Jamien Sherwood, and Michael Carter II evolved into high-end players under Saleh.

Saleh's defense involves getting upfield pressure with four players and a heavy use of quarters zone coverage. This could give Micah Parsons a ton of freedom to rush the passer, all while making the most of Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland's ability to cover space.

Saleh may not have been the best head coach ever, but no one is questioning his ability to put together an amazing defense. If the Cowboys hire another offensive-minded coach to replace McCarthy and let Dak Prescott do his thing, Saleh could have free reign to make this defense as good as can be in 2025.

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