Dallas added veteran NFL defensive coordinator and ex‑Browns head coach Mike Pettine as a senior defensive assistant, prompting a Thursday press conference where DC Christian Parker was asked if Pettine is a “save‑the‑day” hire after a shaky start.
I don’t have to answer that, Parker told Clarence Hill of DLLS Sports, adding that he views Pettine as a true right‑hand man in his inaugural season steering the defense. Having served under Pettine in Green Bay in 2019, Parker outlined how he’ll tap the seasoned coach for the remainder of the year. For my money, leaning on Pettine’s experience is a smart move.
Parker said the veteran will act as a sounding board—reviewing film, offering expertise, much like the position coaches. He expects Pettine to be ahead of the next opponent by Monday, providing advances, specialized insight, and a partner to bounce ideas off.
He believes the Cowboys’ defensive woes are very fixable and sees Sunday night against the Packers as the perfect showcase of progress. Can the staff’s tweaks translate into a turnaround by season’s end?