Jerry Jones opens up after Dallas Cowboys' Matt Eberflus firing

After a frustrating year, the Dallas Cowboys decided to move on from defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus on Tuesday. The veteran coach, who was with the Cowboys for seven seasons as a linebacker coach during the Jason Garrett era, served in his current role for just one season.

His defense was among the worst in the league, finishing 30th with 377 yards surrendered per game. They also gave up 60 touchdowns, which is more than any other team.

MORE: Stephen A. Smith shares strong reaction to Cowboys' major move

After the news was released, Jerry Jones issued a statement regarding the move. He praised Eberflus, but stated a change was needed. He also vowed this would be just the first step in correcting their struggling defense.

"Having known Matt Eberflus for decades now, we have tremendous respect & appreciation for him as a coach and a person. After reviewing & discussing the results of our defensive performance this season, though, it was clear that change is needed," Jones said.

“This is the first step in that process, and we will continue that review as it applies to reaching our much higher expectations."

Jerry Jones continued on firing Matt Eberflus: “This is the first step in that process and we will continue that review as it applies to reaching our much higher expectations."#Cowboys https://t.co/00nVXuH2dc
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) January 6, 2026

Cowboys can begin searching for an assistant immediately

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stands on the field during pregame warmups against the Los Angeles Chargers. | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Jones was criticized in 2025 for dragging his feet on their decision with Mike McCarthy. While he was debating whether to bring the head coach back for a sixth season, other candidates were interviewing elsewhere.

That shouldn't be an issue this year with Jones making this decision quickly. By letting Eberflus go early in the week, he can now interview with coaches who are in the postseason. If he has interest in anyone from the No. 1 seed teams (Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos), those interviews can take place this week.

MORE: Darkhorse Cowboys defensive coordinator candidate emerges from NFL insider

Assistants with the remaining playoff teams can be interviewed the following Tuesday and Wednesday.

There's no guarantee Jones will go after anyone on staff in the postseason, but at least he will have the opportunity.

— Sign up for the Cowboys Daily Digest newsletter for more free coverage from Dallas Cowboys on SI —

Rapid reactions from Dallas Cowboys' embarrassing Week 18 loss to Giants

2 winners & 3 losers from Cowboys’ flat Week 18 loss to Giants

Cowboys' 2026 mock draft adds 'earth mover,' star EDGE ahead of Week 18

Dak Prescott finishes 2025-26 NFL season with better stats than record indicates

Did Javonte Williams already play his last game with Cowboys?

Meet Brenley Herrera: Viral Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader 2025 rookie