Keep Micah Parsons relevant and more are three things Mike Zimmer, the Cowboys DC, needs to do.
Dan Quinn’s appointment as the Washington Commanders’ head coach left a critical position on Mike McCarthy’s staff, which he fills.
Working his way up from defensive assistant to defensive coordinator from 1994 to 2006, Zimmer gained knowledge of the Cowboys organization. In his new position in Dallas, the new defensive coordinator must accomplish the following three goals:
1. Ascertain Micah Parsons’s happiness
The Cowboys edge rusher recently finished with 14 sacks, the most in the NFL, and the highest percentage of double teams (35%) of any defender.
It will be crucial for Zimmer to keep Parsons useful as a pass rusher, even though he is frequently double-teamed. Parsons was rotated between defensive end, outside linebacker, and inside linebacker under Quinn. While it’s unclear, Zimmer is probably going to carry on in that capacity after he assumes leadership.
2. Look for linebackers with more size
In some circumstances, Quinn used smaller linebackers because offenses passed more when they utilized three receivers and tight ends, who have more receivers than blocks.
In certain formations, tight end, receiver, and running back cover were provided by Jayron Kearse, who is more of a safety. When Kearse becomes available for free in March, the Cowboys will probably let him go.
However, it is imperative to locate larger linebackers through the draft or free agency. When covering tight ends, will Zimmer deploy cornerbacks more often than Quinn? Finding a linebacker who plays with greater physical presence is crucial if the Cowboys don’t get a bigger one.
Although the Cowboys enjoyed starting Damone Clark (6-3, 240 pounds), Zimmer is looking for a player who employs more physicality.
3. An eminent coach
Within the organization, Dan Quinn was a well-liked coach. Although he is well-liked, Zimmer is known for being an aggressive coach.
The defensive players’ response to Zimmer’s willingness to stir things up will be crucial. Quinn and Zimmer both have head coaching experience and are aware of the chain of command, but McCarthy will probably allow Zimmer the latitude to pursue players with his traditional methods.