After a forgettable 2025 NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys have already made the drastic change that many anticipated by parting ways with defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus after only one season with the storied franchise.
As a result of the move, longtime team owner and general manager Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ brass will begin their search for Eberflus’ successor, with one primary target for the vacancy on the sideline: Brian Flores of the Minnesota Vikings.
Brian Flores Emerges as Top Target for Cowboys DC
GettyDefensive coordinator Brian Flores of the Minnesota Vikings
As the NFL offseason gets underway for the majority of the league after Week 18, Flores becomes a top target for a lot of the teams in the league as a defensive coordinator and a head coach.
It appears the Cowboys are intent on going after Flores, according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic.
Flores would be a massive upgrade at defensive coordinator for America’s Team and precisely what the squad needs on that side of the football to get them back on track heading into the 2026 NFL season.
The real question now is whether Jones and company are ready to pay Flores his asking price to lure him away from the Vikings and any other team that might be interested in his services as a defensive coordinator or a head coach.
After the team’s loss to the division rival New York Giants in Week 18, Cowboys star quarterback Dak Prescott didn’t hold back his thoughts about the defense in Dallas and how it should be addressed during the NFL offseason.
“We’ve got one of the best offenses in the league and unfortunately one of the not so good defenses in the league, or however you want to say it,” Prescott said. “We have to stop giving up 30 points a game, and I’m sure that will be the focus this offseason.”
The Las Vegas Raiders are another team that might be in the hunt for Flores, as they’ll be looking to replace Pete Carroll, who was fired on Monday after only one season with the struggling franchise.
Brandon Aubrey Opens Up About Future With Cowboys
GettyBrandon Aubrey #17 of the Dallas Cowboys
Along with the Cowboys’ brass having the tall task of replacing Eberflus at defensive coordinator, the team will have some decisions to make in NFL free agency, with three-time Pro Bowl kicker Brandon Aubrey potentially being near the top of the list of priorities.
Aubrey was asked about his future with the Cowboys after the loss to the Giants and gave a telling answer regarding his mindset as he heads into the NFL offseason.
“I keep my head down and focus on kicking balls,” Aubrey said after Week 18. “Now would be time to look at that. No idea what’s in store, but love being here.
“It’s my hometown team. I love being a part of it and hopefully we can keep it going.”
With Aubrey being one of the best kickers in the league today, Jones will likely want to keep him in Dallas moving forward.
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