Cowboys Appoint Mike Pettine as Senior Defensive Assistant

The Dallas Cowboys have appointed Mike Pettine as a senior defensive assistant in an effort to strengthen their defense. This decision was announced by head coach Brian Schottenheimer during a press conference on Monday.

Pettine has a history of collaboration with Schottenheimer and defensive coordinator Christian Parker. He previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Jets from 2009 to 2012, while Schottenheimer was in charge of the offense during that time. Pettine later led the Bills' defense and was the head coach for the Browns in 2014 and 2015. Most recently, he was the assistant head coach and outside linebackers coach for the Vikings before leaving the team after the 2025 season.

Currently, the Cowboys hold a 2-3 record following their recent loss to the Buccaneers. They are ranked 26th in points allowed and 31st in yards allowed this season, highlighting the need for improvement on defense.