Cowboys DC discusses 'exciting' new defensive philosophy

Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus is hoping to put players in position for highlight-reel plays.

Chicago Bears former head coach Matt Eberflus looks at the scoreboard during their game against the Detroit Lions | Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys are coming off the heels of a 7-10 season and hoping to bounce back with a strong offseason. For the 2025 season, the new coaching staff is aiming to take the team to new heights with a run-first mentality on offense and a well-balanced approach on defense.

New defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, who was formerly the head coach of the Chicago Bears, recently shared his defensive philosophy during a press conference.

MORE: NFL expert has Cowboys replacing Osa Odighizuwa in latest mock draft

“It’s pretty simple, we take the ball away. That’s what we do. We stop the run," Eberflus said, via Jon Machota of The Athletic. "We want to make exciting plays for our football team. That’s really what we do.”

Dallas Cowboys former linebackers coach and current defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus at a scrimmage | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Eberflus's biggest challenge will be stopping the run, an area where the Cowboys struggled throughout Mike McCarthy's five-year tenure as head coach.

MORE: Micah Parsons discusses 'challenging' Cowboys DC change

While Eberflus's HITS principle, which stands for hustle, intensity, takeaways, and playing smart, provides a solid foundation, it can only take the team so far without the right players on defense.

There are high hopes for Eberflus, especially considering his strong track record defensively during his time as head coach of the Bears. However, he will certainly need help from the Cowboys front office to fully leverage his defensive philosophy and get the most out of his system.

— Enjoy free coverage of the Cowboys from Dallas Cowboys on SI —

6 late-round wide receivers Cowboys should monitor at NFL Combine

5 Cowboys who should see reduced roles in 2025 NFL season

Brian Schottenheimer's full Cowboys coaching staff officially announced

Dallas Cowboys trade back, get help in trenches in 7-round mock draft

Cowboys predicted to make bold trade with Jets for star RB

Meet Abby Summers: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Rookie