Why coaching continuity matters for the Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have been heavily involved in this year's coaching carousel. There was a point in time where it looked like the Cowboys would be searching for new coordinators on both sides of the ball. Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has been a hot commodity in coaching circles thanks to the work that he did […]
The Dallas Cowboys have been heavily involved in this year's coaching carousel. There was a point in time where it looked like the Cowboys would be searching for new coordinators on both sides of the ball.
Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has been a hot commodity in coaching circles thanks to the work that he did with the Cowboys defense this past season. Quinn helped improve the Cowboys defense into one of the best in the league. Micah Parsons emerged as a star, while the unit transformed into a turnover-creating machine.
On the other side, Kellen Moore has been a name of interest for month. Dallas had one of the best offenses in football, especially through the air. Offensive-minded coaches are the current trend, so it comes as no surprise that Moore has interviewed for multiple vacancies.
QUINN TURNED DOWN HC OPPORTUNITY?
It was reported on Thursday that Dan Quinn would be returning as defensive coordinator despite some interest from franchises for open head coaching positions.
Both the Denver Broncos and Chicago Bears made coaching hires, and Quinn quickly made it known that he would be returning to run the defense in Dallas. That is a significant offseason win for the Cowboys.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said during his 105.3 appearance on Friday morning that he believes that Quinn actually turned down a head coaching offer to return as defensive coordinator. While it is rare for coaches to turn down these kind of opportunities, Quinn did pull his name out of the cycle before a handful of jobs were filled.
Regardless, Jones also said that Quinn will be coordinating the Cowboys' defense "for years to come." That would be a pretty big deal, as Quinn has done wonders with the unit during his short time with the team.
MOORE IN MIX FOR HC OPENING
Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore is also a name of interest for open head coaching positions. The Minnesota Vikings, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Miami Dolphins are three franchises that have held interviews with the young offensive mind.
The Dolphins, in particular, are the team to watch if Moore is going to get a head coaching gig this offseason. Miami is reportedly confident in its defensive staff and hope to keep that side of the ball intact. Therefore, the team is searching for an offensive coach to elevate Tua Tagovailoa and the offense.
Moore, along with Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Brian Daboll and Mike McDaniel of the San Francisco 49ers, is set to receive a second interview with the Dolphins. That points to Moore being a serious candidate for the Miami job.
That said, Jerry Jones believes that the Cowboys play-caller will be back with Dallas for the upcoming season. Moore returning would mean that Dallas will be returning its play-callers on both sides of the ball.
Moore received some heavy criticism for his game plan and play-calling down the stretch of the season and in big moments. The refusal to involve Tony Pollard more was head-scratching, as was the lack of tempo and downfield shots.
CONTINUITY MATTERS FOR COWBOYS
Nonetheless, both Cowboys coordinators received some heavy interest for head coaching vacancies. Yet, it looks like Dallas will retain both for the upcoming season.
That is important because it allows the Dallas Cowboys to have some continuity. Instead of looking to replace one — or both — coordinator positions, the Cowboys will have familiar faces running the show next season.
With so many changes happening around the NFL, that has a chance to pay off dividends for the Dallas Cowboys.
Featured image via Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
