Feb 14, 2026, 12:00 PM UTC – The Dallas Cowboys are actively bolstering their defensive coaching personnel under the direction of newly appointed defensive coordinator Christian Parker. Recent developments indicate a strategic focus on assembling a staff capable of revitalizing a unit that struggled significantly in the previous season.
Cowboys Target SMU Coordinator for Linebackers Role
Scott Symons, currently the defensive coordinator at SMU, is anticipated to join the Cowboys organization as their inside linebackers coach. Symons has spent the last four years leading the SMU defense, also serving as the safeties coach during that period. His consistent performance has garnered recognition, earning him nominations for the prestigious Broyles Award – recognizing the nation’s top collegiate assistant coach – for the past three years.
Symons played a pivotal role in SMU’s historic 2024 season, guiding the team to its first-ever appearance in the College Football Playoff. This past season, the SMU defense excelled under his leadership, achieving notable rankings: fifth nationally in turnovers gained, fifth in red zone defense, eighth in interceptions, 19th in rushing defense, and 23rd in sacks. Prior to his tenure at SMU, Symons served as the defensive coordinator for Liberty University from 2019 to 2021, and previously coached linebackers at Memphis in 2018.
Former NFL Player Added to Offensive Staff
In addition to defensive enhancements, the Cowboys are also reinforcing their offensive coaching ranks. Kyle Fuller, a Metroplex native and Baylor University graduate, is slated to return to his roots as an assistant offensive line coach and quality control coach. Fuller brings a wealth of experience from a seven-year NFL career, participating in 53 games (including playoffs) and making 12 starts.
According to a Friday report from ESPN’s Todd Archer, Fuller most recently held a quality control position with the Las Vegas Raiders under head coach Pete Carroll during Carroll’s single season with the team. Before that, Fuller completed graduate assistant roles at both the University of North Carolina and Appalachian State, laying the groundwork for his coaching career.
Holt Urges Cowboys to Secure Key Receiver
Former St. Louis Rams star Torry Holt has publicly advocated for the Dallas Cowboys to prioritize a long-term contract extension for wide receiver George Pickens. Holt believes the Cowboys “knocked it out of the park” with the acquisition of Pickens, who has demonstrated the potential to be a premier receiving threat, arguably a number one receiver on many other teams.
During an appearance on “Up and Adams” with Kay Adams, Holt emphasized the importance of retaining Pickens, stating the organization needs to “do the right thing.” While praising Pickens’ exceptional talent, Holt also encouraged the player to maintain consistent focus and maturity, addressing lingering questions about his on-field demeanor. The Cowboys are likely to consider the franchise tag as they navigate contract negotiations.
Defensive Rebuild Remains Top Priority
Following a disappointing 2025 season where the defense finished last in points allowed (30.1) and 30th in yards allowed (377), a comprehensive defensive overhaul is the Cowboys’ primary objective this offseason. While Christian Parker’s arrival has instilled optimism, significant reinforcements are needed to achieve substantial improvement.
One potential target is free agent Coby Bryant, fresh off a Super Bowl victory. Bryant’s versatility and positional flexibility could be a valuable asset to Parker’s system. However, his market value is estimated at a two-year, $28.5 million contract, averaging $14.3 million annually – a substantial investment the Cowboys haven’t recently made in a single player. The Cowboys also remain a prominent suitor for All-Pro edge rusher Maxx Crosby, whose potential availability continues to generate speculation. NFL insider Jordan Schultz suggests the Raiders would only consider a trade for a package comparable to the one received for Micah Parsons.
