Cowboys Hire SMU Defensive Coordinator for Coaching Staff

Scott Symons joins Dallas to help revamp the team's struggling defense.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Dallas Cowboys have hired Scott Symons, the highly respected defensive coordinator from SMU, to be their new inside linebackers coach. Symons had interest from multiple NFL teams this offseason, but elected to join the Cowboys' revamped defensive staff led by new coordinator Christian Parker. At SMU, Symons helped the team's defense rank in the top 25 nationally in several key categories over the past few seasons, including their College Football Playoff appearance in 2024.

Why it matters

The Cowboys had one of the worst defenses in the NFL last season, ranking 30th in total yards allowed and last in scoring defense. Hiring Symons, a proven college coordinator, is part of the team's efforts to overhaul their defensive coaching staff and improve the unit's performance for the upcoming season.

The details

Symons had been SMU's defensive coordinator since 2022, helping the team compile a 38-16 record during his tenure. In 2024, SMU's defense ranked in the top 25 nationally in several key categories, including defensive touchdowns, rushing defense, and team sacks. The unit maintained its strong performance in 2025 as well. The Cowboys are hoping Symons can have a similar impact on their linebackers and overall defensive scheme.

  • Symons has been SMU's defensive coordinator since 2022.
  • In 2024, SMU's defense ranked in the top 25 nationally during their College Football Playoff appearance.
  • Symons continued to lead SMU's strong defensive unit in 2025.

The players

Scott Symons

The highly respected defensive coordinator who is leaving SMU to join the Dallas Cowboys' coaching staff as the new inside linebackers coach.

Christian Parker

The new defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, who is tasked with revamping the team's struggling defense.

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What they’re saying

“The Cowboys are hiring SMU defensive coordinator Scott Symons as inside linebackers coach, per source. A highly respected college DC, Symons had interest from multiple NFL teams this cycle and elected to join Brian Schottenheimer's revamped defensive staff and stay in Dallas.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Network Reporter (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

The Cowboys will look to Symons to help improve their linebacker play and overall defensive performance after a disappointing 2022 season.

The takeaway

The Cowboys are making a concerted effort to overhaul their defensive coaching staff and bring in respected college coordinators like Symons to help turn around their struggling unit. This hire signals the team's commitment to improving on the defensive side of the ball for the upcoming season.