Cowboys Blocked from Interviewing Jeff Ulbrich for Defensive Coordinator Role

The Dallas Cowboys enter the offseason with a glaring defensive deficiency, one that was magnified during a difficult 2025 campaign. After trading Micah Parsons and navigating a thin, injury-plagued secondary, the defense collapsed, giving up 30.1 points and over 250 passing yards per game — the worst in the NFL. The struggles prompted the organization to part ways with Matt Eberflus after just one season.

In response, Dallas launched a search for a new defensive coordinator, targeting experienced minds capable of revitalizing the team’s front seven and secondary. One high-profile candidate emerged in Jeff Ulbrich, the Falcons’ defensive play-caller, who has built a reputation for developing a strong pass rush and fostering young talent.

However, Dallas’ pursuit of Ulbrich has stalled. ESPN NFL Nation’s Todd Archer reports that the Falcons refused to allow the Cowboys to interview him for the role, despite Atlanta dismissing head coach Raheem Morris at the end of the season. Ownership, led by Arthur Blank, reportedly remains a staunch supporter of Ulbrich.

The former Jets interim head coach remains under contract with Atlanta, leaving Dallas to explore alternative candidates. The team’s defensive woes make this hire critical, as the wrong choice could prolong a cycle of underperformance and missed opportunities.

1. Defensive Struggles in Dallas

The Cowboys’ defensive numbers in 2025 were stark. Ranked last in the NFL in points allowed and passing yards per game, they also finished near the bottom in total yards surrendered, giving up 6,409 yards across the season. America’s Team struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks, recording just 35 sacks — far fewer than the league’s most productive units. The lack of a consistent pass rush left secondary players exposed, compounding issues in coverage and limiting defensive versatility. The front seven’s ineffectiveness forced the defense into reactive schemes, often putting Brian Schottenheimer’s staff on the back foot. Without a significant upgrade in coordinator leadership and scheme design, these problems could persist into next season. Dallas viewed Ulbrich as a potential solution, hoping his expertise could jump-start a pass rush and improve overall discipline. His success with Atlanta’s young talent was particularly appealing in addressing these structural gaps.

2. Ulbrich’s Track Record in Atlanta

Under Ulbrich, Atlanta’s defense posted middling overall numbers in 2025, ranking 19th in points allowed and 24th in rushing yards surrendered. Yet the unit excelled in a key area: pass rushing. Rookie standout James Pearce Jr. recorded 10.5 sacks, helping the Falcons set a franchise record with 57 sacks. Ulbrich’s ability to develop young talent and create a disruptive front seven made him a coveted candidate league-wide. Dallas hoped to replicate this model to strengthen a Cowboys defense that has consistently struggled to pressure quarterbacks effectively. Despite the interest, the Falcons’ refusal to release Ulbrich for an interview leaves Dallas without access to one of its top targets. The team must now pivot and evaluate other candidates capable of addressing the league’s most glaring defensive deficiencies.

3. Next Steps for America’s Team

The Cowboys face a critical offseason in rebuilding a unit that ranks among the NFL’s worst defensively. Identifying the right coordinator will be central to any improvement, particularly in generating a consistent pass rush and stabilizing coverage. If Dallas cannot secure a proven leader, the organization risks another extended period of defensive mediocrity. The challenge extends beyond personnel, requiring a coach who can instill discipline, adapt to injuries, and maximize a roster in transition. Moving forward, the team will explore other experienced defensive minds while keeping an eye on the Falcons’ coaching situation. Time is of the essence, as Dallas looks to make meaningful changes before the next season begins. The Cowboys’ defensive renaissance depends on finding a coordinator capable of transforming a porous unit into a competitive force in the NFL.