As the Dallas Cowboys’ disappointing season draws to a close, coaches are openly sharing their regrets about the team’s performance.
Defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has been the most direct in expressing his frustrations. Zimmer, whose one-year contract likely won’t be renewed regardless of Mike McCarthy’s return, admitted that he struggled to implement his vision for the defense.
Zimmer highlighted the challenges he faced, particularly when trying to balance his approach with a team that had done well in the previous year. “I wish that when I came in, I would’ve done everything the way I wanted it done,” he said. He further explained that he had to adapt, doing things that made him uncomfortable. “I wasn’t as tough as I typically am… that’s what I regret the most,” Zimmer noted.
Zimmer’s remarks also hinted at issues with the coaching staff and possibly McCarthy’s influence. Under Zimmer, the Cowboys’ defense fell significantly from ranking fifth in points and yardage allowed in 2023 to 28th in yards and 31st in points this season.
Offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer echoed similar disappointment. He expressed regret over the team’s performance in turnover margin, as the Cowboys fell from fifth in giveaway-takeaway ratio last season to 24th this year. Schottenheimer pointed to the turnovers in their loss to the Eagles, saying, “You just can’t win consistently turning the football over.”
