Cowboys Add Pettine to Aid Struggling Defense
9 sourcesUpdated Oct 16, 20261 min read
The Dallas Cowboys have brought Mike Pettine aboard as a senior defensive assistant to help first-year defensive coordinator Christian Parker address the team’s early-season struggles on defense. Pettine, who had initially planned to take time away from coaching, said he accepted the role after Parker reached out and will advise him, help with game planning, and offer an extra perspective during games from the coaching booth. Parker and Pettine previously worked together in Green Bay, while Pettine also brings extensive NFL coaching experience. Pettine said he is working to catch up on the team’s film and systems and hopes his past experience, including lessons from mistakes, can help the staff.
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Bringing in an experienced guy like Pettine is a smart move for Dallas, but it still leaves Parker in charge on the sideline where the real adjustments happen.
Parker needs all the help he can get after these defensive lapses, and Pettine's booth role should add useful game planning without taking over.
