Mike Zimmer, head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, stands on the field before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, January 9, 2022, in Minneapolis. (Photo credit: Stacy Bengs / AP)
The Dallas Cowboys made it official on Monday, hiring Mike Zimmer, the former Minnesota Vikings coach, as their new defensive coordinator.
Zimmer’s Excitement and Acceptance
“I’m excited and honored to be back with a great organization,” Zimmer told ESPN’s Ed Werder. “I’m thrilled to work with Mike McCarthy, for whom I have had a ton of respect in our NFC North days, and to do anything I can do to help the Joneses and the Cowboys.”
Initial Doubts Dispelled
Initial doubts arose regarding Zimmer’s appointment, with ESPN analyst Rex Ryan expressing uncertainty during ESPN’s “Postseason NFL Countdown” on Sunday. However, on Monday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Cowboys had reaffirmed their decision to hire Zimmer.
Zimmer’s Coaching Background
Zimmer, 67, brings extensive coaching experience to the Cowboys, having previously served as an assistant coach for the team from 1994 to 2006. He held various defensive coaching positions during his time there, including defensive backs coach and defensive coordinator.
Zimmer also served as the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings from 2014 to 2021, achieving a commendable record of 74-59-1 and leading the team to three playoff appearances.
His familiarity with McCarthy, stemming from their encounters in the NFC North, will likely ease his transition into his new role.
Replacing Dan Quinn
Zimmer replaces Dan Quinn, who departed to become the head coach of the Washington Commanders after a successful three-year stint as the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator.
Under Quinn’s guidance, the Cowboys’ defense demonstrated significant improvement, leading the NFL in takeaways in the 2021 and 2022 seasons and contributing to the team’s postseason success.
Zimmer: Third Coordinator under McCarthy
Zimmer now becomes the third defensive coordinator under McCarthy’s tenure, following Mike Nolan and Quinn. With Zimmer’s arrival, the Cowboys aim to maintain their defensive prowess and continue pursuing playoff success in the upcoming seasons.
This report used information from ESPN.
