The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly set to reunite with Mike Zimmer as their new defensive coordinator, according to sources. Zimmer, who previously served as the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings from 2014-2021, will be replacing Dan Quinn, who left to become the head coach of the Washington Commanders. During his time in Minnesota, Zimmer led the team to three playoff appearances and had a regular-season record of 72-56-1.
This will not be Zimmer’s first time with the Cowboys, as he previously worked with the team as an assistant, defensive backs coach, and defensive coordinator. He was even a part of their Super Bowl-winning team in 1995. Before his time in Minnesota, Zimmer also worked as a defensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons and the Cincinnati Bengals. He was named the Assistant Coach of the Year in 2009.
Most recently, Zimmer was an analyst at Jackson State in 2022, where he worked alongside his former player, Deion Sanders. The Cowboys considered multiple veteran coaches for the defensive coordinator position, including Ron Rivera and Rex Ryan. Under Quinn’s leadership, the Cowboys’ defense ranked in the top 10 in points allowed for three consecutive seasons. In 2023, they placed fifth in both points and total yards allowed.
Zimmer has established himself as one of the NFL’s best defensive-minded coaches throughout his career. In 2017, he helped the Vikings have the top-ranked defense in the league. However, the team struggled defensively in Zimmer’s final years as head coach, allowing the third-most points in the league in 2021.
According to the Source sportsgossip.com