Four Mike Zimmer Substitutes the Dallas Cowboys Ought to Take into Account

As the NFL season progresses, one of the most significant decisions any NFL team can make is the selection of the right head coach. The Dallas Cowboys, with their storied history, passionate fan base, and high expectations, are no exception. In recent years, Dallas has had success under head coach Mike McCarthy, but there remains a sense of untapped potential for a team with such talent. The question arises: should the Cowboys consider moving on from McCarthy and hiring a new head coach? If so, Mike Zimmer—former head coach of the Minnesota Vikings—would be an intriguing name on the radar. However, the Cowboys might also want to explore other coaching candidates with the same defensive acumen and experience to guide the team forward.

This article will explore four potential Mike Zimmer substitutes for the Dallas Cowboys, evaluating their experience, coaching philosophy, and overall fit with the franchise. These candidates bring varying strengths to the table, and any of them could provide the necessary leadership to take the Cowboys to the next level.

1. Dan Quinn – Defensive Coordinator, Dallas Cowboys

The first and most obvious candidate is someone already within the Cowboys organization: Dan Quinn. As the current defensive coordinator for Dallas, Quinn has already proven his worth with the team, leading the defense to be one of the most aggressive and effective units in the NFL. Prior to joining the Cowboys, Quinn was the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, where he led the team to a Super Bowl appearance during the 2016 season.

Quinn’s defense-first mentality is a key asset, and it would likely resonate well with the Cowboys’ identity as a team that thrives on both offensive explosiveness and defensive aggression. Under his leadership, the Cowboys defense has improved significantly, showing resilience and the ability to force turnovers, which is a trademark of Quinn’s coaching style.

Key Strengths:

Quinn has vast experience as a head coach, including leading a team to a Super Bowl, which demonstrates his ability to handle high-pressure situations.
His defensive expertise would align with the Cowboys’ need to continue bolstering their defense, especially in the secondary and at linebacker.
As an internal candidate, Quinn already understands the organizational culture and has strong relationships with key players and coaches.

Potential Concerns:

While Quinn’s defensive credentials are strong, some may question his overall ability to manage a high-powered offense, particularly one as explosive as the Cowboys’.
A history of playoff disappointments with Atlanta may raise concerns about his ability to close out big games.

However, Quinn’s experience, combined with the successful defense he has built in Dallas, makes him a strong candidate to consider as a potential head coach for the Cowboys.

2. Kellen Moore – Offensive Coordinator, Dallas Cowboys

Another internal candidate that the Dallas Cowboys could consider is Kellen Moore, the team’s current offensive coordinator. At just 35 years old, Moore is one of the brightest young minds in the NFL and has already proven his worth as a play-caller in Dallas. Under his guidance, the Cowboys offense has been consistently productive, with Dak Prescott leading a potent attack that has produced impressive passing statistics and high-scoring games.

Moore’s background as a former quarterback gives him a unique perspective on the game, allowing him to design offensive schemes that cater to the strengths of his players, particularly Prescott. His ability to innovate and utilize the full potential of the Cowboys’ offensive weapons, including the running back corps and wide receiver unit, makes him an intriguing candidate for head coaching.

Key Strengths:

Moore’s deep understanding of the offensive side of the game could be an asset to a Cowboys team that boasts one of the most talented quarterbacks in the league.
His experience working with Dak Prescott and the team’s offensive core gives him an edge in continuity and understanding of the personnel.
Moore is an up-and-coming coach with a modern, forward-thinking approach to offensive football, which could breathe new life into the Cowboys’ attack.

Potential Concerns:

As a young coach with no head coaching experience, Moore may lack the leadership and organizational skills needed to run a team at the highest level.
There is also the question of whether Moore could handle the challenges of managing both the offense and the defense, which requires a well-rounded skill set.

Despite these potential concerns, Moore’s potential as a rising star in the coaching world makes him a candidate that the Cowboys should seriously consider, especially if they are looking for a long-term solution at head coach.

3. Sean Payton – Former Head Coach, New Orleans Saints

If the Cowboys are looking for a more experienced and proven head coach with a track record of success, Sean Payton is an intriguing option. After stepping down from his position with the New Orleans Saints following the 2021 season, Payton has remained a highly sought-after figure in the coaching market. Known for his offensive genius, Payton is one of the most respected coaches in NFL history, with a Super Bowl victory and multiple playoff appearances to his name.

What makes Payton particularly attractive to the Cowboys is his ability to develop quarterbacks and construct high-powered offenses. He helped elevate Drew Brees into one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time and consistently fielded some of the league’s most dynamic offenses. Payton’s offensive brilliance would complement the Cowboys’ talent on offense, allowing Prescott and the rest of the playmakers to reach their full potential.

Key Strengths:

Payton has a proven track record of success, including a Super Bowl victory, which would bring immediate credibility to the Cowboys.
His offensive expertise could help elevate the Cowboys’ already impressive attack to new heights.
Payton’s experience as a leader and motivator would help the Cowboys compete for championships in the near future.

Potential Concerns:

Payton’s coaching style, which is highly demanding, could clash with the Cowboys’ more relaxed organizational culture.
The Cowboys would likely need to give up significant resources—possibly including draft picks—to acquire Payton, which could be a significant barrier.

Payton is a high-risk, high-reward candidate. However, his proven ability to succeed at the highest level makes him an exciting option for a franchise with championship aspirations like the Cowboys.

4. Jim Harbaugh – Head Coach, Michigan Wolverines

Another established head coach with a proven track record is Jim Harbaugh, who has found tremendous success in college football with the Michigan Wolverines. Harbaugh’s success in the college ranks has rejuvenated his reputation as one of the top coaches in the game. Prior to his tenure at Michigan, Harbaugh was the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, where he took the team to three NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl appearance in just four years.

Harbaugh is known for his no-nonsense approach, strong leadership, and ability to instill a winning culture. His time in the NFL proved that he can handle the rigors of professional football, and his competitive nature and drive would be an asset to a Cowboys team that has struggled to take the next step in the postseason.

Key Strengths:

Harbaugh’s experience in both college and the NFL makes him a versatile coach with the ability to adapt to different environments.
His leadership and motivational skills are widely respected, and his track record of success in both the NFL and college makes him a strong candidate for the Cowboys.
Harbaugh’s intensity and focus on building a team-first culture could provide the Cowboys with the discipline they need to achieve sustained success.

Potential Concerns:

Harbaugh’s intense coaching style may not be a perfect fit for every locker room, particularly one with the diverse personalities the Cowboys currently have.
If Harbaugh leaves Michigan for the NFL, it could create uncertainty for the Cowboys regarding his long-term commitment to the franchise.

Despite these concerns, Harbaugh’s competitive drive and winning pedigree make him an intriguing option for a team with championship aspirations like the Dallas Cowboys.