The Dallas Cowboys are actively seeking a new defensive coordinator, with early indications suggesting that a former coach from the University of Wisconsin may take on the role. Owner and general manager Jerry Jones has begun interviews, with two candidates from the Badgers’ coaching staff among the initial three names considered.
Jim Leonhard, a prominent figure in Wisconsin football, is reportedly at the forefront of these discussions. Leonhard, who played safety for the Badgers from 2001 to 2004, boasts a decade-long career in the NFL. He joined the Wisconsin coaching staff in 2016 and climbed the ranks to become the defensive coordinator. In the latter half of the 2022 season, he stepped in as interim head coach after Paul Chryst was dismissed. His tenure has left a lasting impression, with many fans wishing he had retained the head coach position instead of the hiring of Luke Fickell.
Currently serving as the defensive pass game coordinator and assistant head coach for the Denver Broncos, Leonhard has played a significant role in guiding the team to a Top 3 defense in the NFL this season. The Broncos secured a first-round bye as the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs, further solidifying Leonhard’s reputation as a skilled defensive strategist. Given his success, he is anticipated to attract interest from various teams seeking defensive coordinators.
The second candidate interviewing for the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator position is Daronte Jones. He previously held the role of defensive backs coach at Wisconsin during the 2015 season, a year notable for Tanner McEvoy‘s standout performance, which included six interceptions. Under Jones’ guidance, the Badgers’ secondary achieved an impressive feat by limiting opposing quarterbacks to a completion percentage below 50 percent.
Jones is now the defensive passing game coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, a team that also demonstrated strong defensive capabilities this season, ranking in the Top 5 for pass defense. Despite their success, the Vikings narrowly missed the playoffs, finishing with a record of 9-8. In addition to interviewing with the Cowboys, Jones is also in the running for the vacant defensive coordinator position with the New York Jets.
This coaching cycle has the potential to see multiple former Wisconsin coaches transition into significant roles within the NFL, reflecting the growing influence of Badgers alumni in professional football. As the Cowboys continue their search for a defensive coordinator, both Leonhard and Jones remain strong contenders, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.
