Two Top NFC Assistants Expected to be Interviewed by Cowboys in HC Search
The Dallas Cowboys are in the midst of a highly anticipated head coach search following a disappointing finish to the 2024 NFL season. As the team looks to elevate its performance and regain championship contention, attention has turned to the potential candidates who could take the reins of one of the most storied franchises in NFL history. Two prominent assistants in the NFC are reportedly in the mix for interviews with the Cowboys: Dan Quinn, the defensive coordinator for the Cowboys, and Kellen Moore, the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers.
Both of these assistants are considered top candidates due to their extensive experience, their demonstrated leadership abilities, and their potential to bring a fresh direction to the Cowboys’ organization. Let’s take a closer look at each of these coaches, their coaching backgrounds, and what they could bring to the table as head coach candidates for the Cowboys.
Dan Quinn: A Defensive-Minded Leader with a Proven Track Record
Dan Quinn has been with the Dallas Cowboys since 2021, serving as the defensive coordinator under head coach Mike McCarthy. Quinn previously made a name for himself as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons from 2015 to 2020, where he led the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2017, albeit a heartbreaking loss to the New England Patriots. Quinn has built a reputation as a defensive mastermind, and his work with the Cowboys has helped establish a defense that is regarded as one of the best in the NFL.
Quinn’s background is deeply rooted in defensive strategy. After beginning his coaching career as a defensive line coach, he quickly worked his way up the coaching ladder, eventually taking on coordinator roles with the Seattle Seahawks and Falcons. He was the defensive coordinator for the Seahawks from 2013 to 2014, during which the team won Super Bowl XLVIII and had one of the most dominant defenses in league history, often referred to as the “Legion of Boom.”
Quinn’s defensive approach focuses on aggression and adaptability. His ability to coach a defense that can pressure quarterbacks while maintaining solid coverage in the secondary has made him a sought-after coaching candidate. During his time with the Cowboys, Quinn has transformed a unit that struggled to consistently generate pressure and get stops into a top-tier defense that ranks among the league’s best in 2024. The Cowboys’ defense has excelled at creating turnovers, limiting big plays, and getting after the quarterback, with players like Micah Parsons emerging as one of the league’s most disruptive forces.
One of the key factors working in Quinn’s favor is his leadership. As a former head coach, Quinn has proven he can handle the demands of overseeing an entire organization. His experience as a head coach in Atlanta, where he was tasked with managing both the offense and defense, has provided him with valuable insights into how to run a team. Quinn’s strong communication skills, ability to build relationships with players, and focus on team culture are all aspects that would serve him well in a head coaching role in Dallas.
Despite his success as a coordinator, Quinn’s time in Atlanta ended in disappointment, with the Falcons never quite living up to expectations after their Super Bowl appearance. Some critics have pointed to Quinn’s inability to adjust in crucial moments during that 28-3 loss to the Patriots, and his tenure in Atlanta ended with a 43-42 record. However, his track record as a defensive coordinator, especially in Dallas, has been exemplary, and the Cowboys’ front office is clearly impressed by his ability to develop talent and build a competitive defense.
For the Cowboys, hiring Dan Quinn would bring a defensive-minded approach to a team that has often been characterized by its offense. While the Cowboys have one of the most potent offensive units in the league, led by Dak Prescott and a talented receiving corps, the team has often been let down by inconsistent play on defense. Quinn’s expertise in building a high-performing defense could help balance out the Cowboys’ roster and lead them back to championship contention.
Kellen Moore: The Offensive Prodigy Looking to Take the Next Step
On the offensive side of the ball, Kellen Moore has quickly become one of the most respected young minds in the NFL. Moore spent four seasons as the offensive coordinator for the Cowboys from 2019 to 2022 before moving on to the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023, where he now serves as their offensive coordinator. Moore was integral in helping develop the Cowboys’ high-powered offense, particularly the growth of Dak Prescott as a quarterback. His ability to innovate, scheme effectively, and get the most out of his playmakers made him a hot commodity in the coaching world, and his work with the Chargers has further cemented his reputation.
During his time in Dallas, Moore helped transform the Cowboys’ offense into one of the most dynamic units in the league. Under his guidance, Prescott developed into one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL, and Moore’s ability to design creative plays for a deep and talented receiving corps—including players like Amari Cooper, Michael Gallup, and CeeDee Lamb—was highly regarded. Additionally, Moore was responsible for optimizing the Cowboys’ rushing attack, utilizing the skills of Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard to maintain a balanced offense.
However, despite the offensive success, Moore’s tenure in Dallas was not without controversy. Some critics argued that Moore’s offensive playcalling was too predictable at times, especially in crucial moments. While he had success during the regular season, Moore’s offense often struggled to produce in the postseason, with the Cowboys being eliminated in the playoffs multiple times under his watch.
His move to the Chargers in 2023 was seen as an opportunity for Moore to further develop as a coach and build on his success. Under his leadership, quarterback Justin Herbert has taken another step forward, and the Chargers’ offense has become more balanced and efficient. Moore’s innovative playcalling has been key in unlocking Herbert’s potential and maximizing the talents of wide receiver Keenan Allen and running back Austin Ekeler. The Chargers’ offensive success has made Moore a rising star in the coaching ranks, and many believe that he is ready to take the leap to head coach.
If Moore were to be hired as the Cowboys’ head coach, he would bring a more aggressive, modern offensive philosophy to the team. He has demonstrated a knack for creating mismatches, leveraging talent in creative ways, and adjusting his game plan to suit the strengths of his personnel. Moore’s background as a former quarterback also gives him an intimate understanding of the game from a signal-caller’s perspective, which could be particularly beneficial in his relationship with Dak Prescott.
In Dallas, Moore would inherit a roster that is already primed for offensive success. Prescott is a seasoned quarterback with a deep group of weapons at his disposal, and the Cowboys’ offensive line has been a strong unit for years. Moore’s ability to elevate these players and continue to evolve the offense could be a key factor in the team’s success moving forward.
However, some questions remain about Moore’s ability to lead an entire team. His experience as a coordinator is certainly impressive, but it remains to be seen how he would manage the broader responsibilities of being a head coach. While his youth and innovative approach would certainly energize the team, he may face growing pains as he transitions from a coordinator to a head coach.
What They Bring to the Table
Ultimately, both Dan Quinn and Kellen Moore represent strong candidates for the Cowboys’ head coach position, albeit in different ways. Quinn’s expertise on the defensive side of the ball and his proven ability to lead an entire team would bring a steady, experienced hand to the Cowboys’ organization. His leadership qualities and ability to build a championship-caliber defense could be exactly what the team needs to contend for a Super Bowl.
On the other hand, Moore offers a fresh, innovative approach to the offensive side of the ball. His success in developing quarterbacks and designing high-powered offenses could help the Cowboys take their offensive game to the next level. With an already potent roster, Moore could provide the spark needed to push the team over the hump.
Both candidates have significant potential, and the Cowboys are sure to carefully evaluate which direction they want to go with their next head coach. Whether they choose Quinn’s proven defensive leadership or Moore’s offensive innovation, one thing is certain: the future of the Cowboys’ coaching staff is in capable hands.
