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Mike Pettine could have a bigger influence on defense than advertised

The Dallas Cowboys have brought in veteran defensive coach Mike Pettine to bolster their struggling unit, hiring him as a senior defensive assistant just days after a humiliating loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The move comes as the Cowboys' defense ranks last in key categories, prompting the team to seek external expertise to guide young coordinator Christian Parker—who was previously mentored by Pettine during his time with the Green Bay Packers.

Pettine’s hiring follows Parker’s own request for the coach’s input, though he initially declined to re-enter the NFL after retiring. With the NFC East wide open and the Cowboys facing the Packers this weekend, Pettine’s experience under Matt LaFleur could provide immediate value, especially as Jerry Jones and head coach Brian Schottenheimer reaffirm their confidence in Parker’s leadership despite the unit’s early-season struggles.

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