Stephen Jones on the Dallas Cowboys Organization’s Alignment, Offensive Coordinator Search, and Coordinator Hires

The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most storied franchises in NFL history, have often been in the spotlight not just for their on-field performance, but for the inner workings of their front office and coaching staff. A team that has consistently reached the playoffs in recent years, yet has fallen short of Super Bowl glory, the Cowboys have found themselves at a crossroads. The pursuit of success and the perennial quest to return to championship glory requires both on-field talent and organizational alignment.

Stephen Jones, the Cowboys’ Executive Vice President, has been at the center of these strategic decisions, balancing the team’s vision for the future with its present-day needs. As the son of team owner Jerry Jones, Stephen has taken on a more prominent role in shaping the direction of the Cowboys. In this article, we will delve into Stephen Jones’ perspective on the Cowboys’ organizational alignment, the ongoing search for a new Offensive Coordinator (OC), and the team’s overall approach to coordinator hires.

Organizational Alignment: A Unified Vision for Success

At the heart of the Cowboys’ approach, according to Stephen Jones, is organizational alignment. The success of any professional sports team is not just reliant on individual talent, but the ability of all areas of the franchise to work cohesively toward a common goal. This means that every decision—whether it’s player acquisitions, hiring staff, or even game-day strategies—must be aligned with the overarching vision of the organization.

In recent years, Dallas has emphasized its core principles of developing talent and building a balanced roster. Stephen Jones is keenly aware that the team cannot just rely on star power but must build a sustainable, long-term strategy. “It’s not just about making splashes,” Jones explained in a recent interview. “It’s about creating a culture where every facet of the organization works together to deliver consistent results. We want a franchise that competes at the highest level year in and year out.”

This approach means that Jones has sought to ensure consistency in leadership. A clear vision and unified communication across the board are integral to this. The Cowboys’ leadership structure has been designed to foster collaboration between the coaching staff, front office, and players. According to Stephen, alignment among all departments is crucial to achieving long-term success and maintaining stability in a highly volatile league.

The Offensive Coordinator Search: Finding the Right Fit

A critical point of focus for Stephen Jones and the Cowboys organization has been the search for a new Offensive Coordinator. The departure of Kellen Moore, who had served as the team’s OC for several seasons, left a void that needed to be filled with someone who could complement head coach Mike McCarthy’s vision and philosophy. The search for the right coordinator has been under heavy scrutiny, given the importance of the offense in a league that increasingly rewards high-powered, dynamic units.

Stephen Jones emphasized the importance of finding a coach who could balance the Cowboys’ run-heavy approach with the need to be adaptable in passing situations. “We’ve got a very talented roster, particularly at the skill positions, and we want someone who understands how to maximize that talent,” said Jones. “The offensive coordinator has to be someone who is in sync with Mike McCarthy’s broader philosophy but can also innovate and develop the offense in ways that give us an edge.”

This search for an OC is not just about finding a tactician but someone who can effectively integrate into the team’s culture and communicate with both the players and coaching staff. The Cowboys are looking for someone who can develop Dak Prescott further, enhance the running game with the likes of Tony Pollard, and ensure that the offense remains consistent without sacrificing creativity. Stephen Jones understands that the right fit goes beyond Xs and Os—there’s a need for compatibility with McCarthy and the overall organizational culture.

Coordinator Hires: A Commitment to Strengthening the Staff

Stephen Jones has long been a proponent of hiring coaches who bring experience, leadership, and innovation to the Cowboys. When it comes to coordinator hires, his philosophy remains focused on elevating the team’s potential. “We want to bring in individuals who not only have a track record of success but also have a vision for where this team needs to go,” said Jones. “Our coordinators are critical to ensuring that we’re developing players, making in-game adjustments, and executing our game plan.”

As of late, Jones has made it clear that the Cowboys will continue to make decisions that elevate their overall coaching staff. This commitment to hiring experienced and talented coaches is evident in some of the recent hires on the defensive side of the ball, with names like Dan Quinn, who has revitalized the defense and proven to be a stabilizing force.

One of the key aspects of the Cowboys’ philosophy under Stephen Jones is the ongoing development of coaches within the organization. They want coordinators who can grow into future head coaching candidates. The staff is designed to foster collaboration and coaching progression, with Jones often noting that the ultimate goal is to keep pushing the organization forward.

The Future of the Cowboys: Balancing Tradition and Innovation

As the Cowboys look toward the future, balancing tradition with innovation is a theme that resonates throughout Stephen Jones’ decision-making. While the franchise’s rich history and legacy remain an important part of the organization, Jones has shown a willingness to evolve and adapt to the modern NFL. This means prioritizing analytics, embracing new training methods, and staying current with the latest tactical developments in the game.

However, Stephen also recognizes that the Cowboys’ identity cannot solely be based on innovation. There is still an element of respecting and maintaining the foundational values that have defined the franchise’s success over the years. “We’re not throwing away what has worked for us historically,” Jones remarked. “But we are always looking for ways to adapt and improve. You have to evolve or you risk getting left behind.”