The upcoming games for the Dallas Cowboys are pivotal for evaluating the performance of defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. After a disappointing season, including a narrow defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles on September 4, 2025, where the Cowboys lost 24-20, the pressure is mounting for Eberflus as the team heads into its final three matches.
During a recent radio show, Eberflus expressed his frustration with the defense’s inability to contain opposing quarterbacks. He stated that these last three games will serve as a critical assessment of his contributions to the team. Former Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Brian Schottenheimer, the team’s offensive coordinator, should play a role in evaluating Eberflus and the rest of the coaching staff over the next few weeks.
The dynamics of the coaching staff in Dallas differ from most other NFL teams, where head coaches typically have the final say on their assistants. In this case, the influence of owner Jerry Jones is significant. Historical precedents indicate that coaching decisions are often made at Jones’ discretion, which has raised questions about the future of Eberflus in his current role.
The Cowboys’ defense has struggled this season, allowing an alarming average of 30 points per game, a record high for the franchise. The team has already surrendered 420 points this season, and to avoid joining the ranks of previous underperforming defensive units, they must restrict their upcoming opponents—the Los Angeles Chargers, Washington Commanders, and New York Giants—to less than 39 points combined in these final matches.
Many fans and analysts are closely monitoring how Eberflus and his unit perform against a strong Chargers offense led by quarterback Justin Herbert. The upcoming games not only serve as an evaluation for Eberflus but also as a potential turning point for the Cowboys, who had hoped for a more successful end to the season.
As the Cowboys approach these crucial matches, the implications for Eberflus’ future hang in the balance. Should the defense fail to show improvement, the team may look to younger coaching candidates to replace him. This uncertainty adds to the intrigue surrounding the Cowboys as they navigate the final stretch of the season, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering what changes may come in the new year.
In a league where coaching adjustments are common, the Cowboys’ management will have significant decisions to make, particularly if the defense continues to perform below expectations. The upcoming games will not only test the resilience of the players but also shape the future of the coaching staff as Dallas seeks to reclaim its competitive edge in the NFL.
