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Cowboys DC Assigns Blame After Jerry Jones’ Announcement
© Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys' defense remains under heavy scrutiny following another disappointing season.

After ownership comments from Jerry Jones, defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus accepted responsibility for the unit’s collapse. NFL reporter Jon Machota shared Eberflus’ remarks, where the coach did not shift blame elsewhere.

"Certainly disappointing. It’s not what we saw coming down the road." Eberflus said about the season.

Eberflus said ownership and accountability fall directly on him as defensive coordinator, saying,

"Ownership and accountability is right with me. I’m the defensive coordinator, so it’s always that. … I take full accountability."

The comments came as Dallas continues to allow historic production on defense, ranking last in points allowed per game. Dallas allows 29.8 points and 376.8 yards per game, among the worst marks in the league.

Jones echoed that frustration during his weekly radio appearance on 105.3 The Fan. He promised improvement on defense while acknowledging how poor the results have been.

"We’ve got to have a more solid defense,” Jones said, via The Athletic. "That’s disappointing this year. We will get better on defense. I promise you that."

Despite that, Jones stressed the issues extend beyond one coach. He said every level of the organization shares responsibility.

"Everybody," Jones said. "It’s not just a one-man blame at all. I say that because therein lies what you have to sit down and figure out, what, if anything, you want to change. We’ll get to that pronto."

Still, Jones' tone has shifted in recent weeks, signaling patience is wearing thin.

The Cowboys sit at 7-8-1 and were eliminated after a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. While the offense, led by Dak Prescott, has produced at a high level, defensive breakdowns erased those gains. Close games repeatedly slipped away due to missed assignments and poor coverage.

Personnel moves have also fueled criticism. The trade of Micah Parsons before the season reshaped the defense late in the process. The release of Trevon Diggs added to the sense of instability.

Dallas will close the season against the New York Giants. No decision has been announced, but momentum suggests change is coming. If Jones follows through, Eberflus’ accountability may soon come with consequences.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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