Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Jerry Jones: Cowboys' Defense Struggles Not Just Eberflus

1/3/2026

27 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus is not solely to blame for the defense's struggles this season.
He said factors, including personnel issues, contributed to defense's poor performance.
Jones stressed establishing a defensive identity moving forward, regardless of leadership.
The Cowboys rank last in points allowed and third in yards allowed in the NFL.

History

Historical Context

In 1970, the NFL introduced a new playoff format, expanding to 16 teams and realigning into two conferences. The Dallas Cowboys, coached by Tom Landry, struggled defensively, allowing an average of 24 points per game. Today, Jerry Jones notes similar issues, as the Cowboys rank last in points allowed, highlighting the ongoing challenge of establishing a strong defensive identity in an evolving league.

1 of 2

Story summary

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus is not solely to blame for the defense's struggles this season.
He said factors, including personnel issues, contributed to defense's poor performance.
Jones stressed establishing a defensive identity moving forward, regardless of leadership.
The Cowboys rank last in points allowed and third in yards allowed in the NFL.

1 / 2