The Dallas Cowboys sported the NFL’s worst scoring defense in 2025, allowing 511 points during the regular season and ultimately missing out on the playoffs for a second successive year. That performance cost Matt Eberflus his role as defensive coordinator for “America’s Team.”
Under Eberflus, Cowboys fans saw opposing offenses gain more yards against their unit (6,409) than all but two teams; only the Cincinnati Bengals (6,475) and Washington Commanders (6,533) saw inferior yardage suppression.
Eberflus also struggled to inhibit opponents’ passing games, as head coach Brian Schottenheimer watched his defense concede the second-highest number of passing touchdowns (35) in the league. Interceptions were just as rare; the Cowboys accumulated just six picks across 17 games.
Poor discipline stood as another key factor behind the defensive failings of the Jerry Jones-owned team in 2025. By the end of the regular season, Eberflus’ defenders racked up more penalties (134) than all other outfits bar the New York Giants.