Preseason and training camp are the perfect time to iron out kinks before the season begins, and the same goes for the Dallas Cowboys.
Specifically, when it comes to the Cowboys’ defense, which features at least five new starters and a new play-caller, Christian Parker. In his first year as the defensive coordinator, Parker has a lot to learn on the job and figure out the route he wants to go.
There is plenty he is going to have to work out before the season starts. His new boss, head coach Brian Schottenheimer, has an opinion on something he would like Parker to do.
Brian Schottenheimer’s Suggestion for New Cowboys DC Christian Parker
GettyARLINGTON, TEXAS – AUGUST 26: Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer watches from the sidelines in a preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders at AT&T Stadium on August 26, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)
Before the Cowboys started their Thursday practice, Schottenheimer spoke with the media. He was asked about Parker’s setup on game day and how that will work. While nothing has been determined yet and Parker will test calling plays on the field and from the booth, Schottenheimer would prefer one over the other.
“In a perfect world, he’ll be down (on the sideline).”
This would be in line with what Schottenheimer has done in his coaching career. Even as an offensive coordinator, he would be on the sidelines calling the plays.
Over the last two years, Parker has worked with the Philadelphia Eagles as their defensive backs coach. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio calls plays from the booth.
Last year, former Cowboys defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus called the first 14 games of the year from the field. Eberflus moved up to the booth in the final three games of the year before getting fired at the end of the season.
Christian Parker Still Figuring Out What to Do for Cowboys in 2026
GettyDallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker.
There are varying views on calling plays from the field versus the booth. On the field, a coordinator can go up to all the position groups right away and coach them up. In the booth, there’s more pressure on the assistants to get it done.
Preseason is the perfect time for Parker to experiment and see what works better. Based on the Cowboys’ recent experience, neither choice really helped the defense.
This unit was in the bottom five in the NFL in total defense and dead last in pass defense. Schottenheimer might be happier if Parker is right there on the field to fix the problems right away.
Ultimately, there isn’t a wrong answer unless it doesn’t work. For Schottenheimer to share his opinion on it shows that he has a vision in mind for the defense. He wants his coordinator right there with him to get things resolved right away.
The Cowboys and Parker have three preseason games to get it figured out before the regular season starts up. There is time to make sure this critical decision ends up being the right call.
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