Cowboys Owner Draws Political Parallel in Coaching Search

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones recently compared the search for a new defensive coordinator to former President Donald Trump’s comments regarding U.S. involvement in Venezuela. This statement came during a press conference where Jones addressed the firing of first-year defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus after just one season.

During Wednesday’s press briefing, Jones was asked whether he would influence head coach Brian Schottenheimer’s choice for the upcoming season’s defensive coordinator. In a light-hearted manner, he remarked, “Trump just said: I’m running Venezuela,” eliciting laughter from those present, including Schottenheimer.

Jones noted that both Schottenheimer and his son, Stephen Jones—who is also the team’s CEO—played significant roles in Eberflus’s hiring and would similarly be involved in selecting his successor. “We’re going to make the call the same way we’ve been calling the staff around here. If Stephen doesn’t agree to the call, I’m not going to make the call,” Jones stated, emphasizing collaboration. “We’re going to work together and come up with something as good as we can.”

This declaration follows a tough season for the Cowboys, particularly after the Philadelphia Eagles eliminated them from playoff contention. Dallas finished the year with a disheartening record, having allowed the most rushing yards and recorded the fewest interceptions in franchise history.

Reflecting on the season, Jones expressed disappointment over the team’s failure to reach the playoffs, noting, “I’m disappointed that we’re not going to make the playoffs and we’re not in a position to make the playoffs. So, that’s disappointing.”