NFL

Cowboys add longtime coach Mike Pettine as senior defensive assistant after early struggles

October 12, 2026

The Dallas Cowboys have hired veteran coach Mike Pettine as their new senior defensive assistant, aiming to bolster a struggling unit under first-year defensive coordinator Christian Parker. The Cowboys’ defense has been one of the worst in the NFL this season, allowing over 400 total yards per game and ranking last in rushing defense, with more than 168 rushing yards conceded per contest.

Their recent 24-16 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers—who entered the game winless—highlighted their defensive woes, as they’ve also surrendered 27.2 points per game, trailing only six other teams in the league. Pettine, 60, brings extensive experience, having served as head coach for the Cleveland Browns (2014–15) and as defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, Buffalo Bills, and New York Jets.

He previously worked alongside Parker during their time with the Packers, where Pettine hired him as an assistant in 2019 for his first NFL role. Pettine retired after last season but has returned to coaching as the Cowboys seek to stabilize their defense, with head coach Mike Schottenheimer expressing excitement about the addition.

The move comes amid criticism of Parker’s leadership, including public remarks from longtime defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, who called out Parker’s struggles to contain the run during the Cowboys’ home opener against the New York Giants.