The Dallas Cowboys are in the process of finalizing their coaching staff under the leadership of new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. While head coach Mike McCarthy remains at the helm, the coaching lineup for 2024 is undergoing significant changes.
Many of these alterations stem from former defensive coordinator Dan Quinn’s departure to become the head coach of the Washington Commanders. In a move to bolster their coaching ranks, the Cowboys have welcomed back a familiar figure in former Pro Bowl pass rusher Greg Ellis, who will serve as the team’s assistant defensive line coach.
According to a message from DallasCowboys.com’s Nick Harris on February 16, 2024, Ellis, a former first-round pick, has previous coaching experience with Texas College and SAGU. This marks his inaugural opportunity coaching in the NFL, returning to the team where he began his professional football career back in 1998.
Furthermore, the Cowboys have brought on board Jeff Zgonina, who previously served as the Commanders’ defensive line coach. Zgonina, a seasoned coach and former player, will assume the same position within the Cowboys’ coaching staff.
Similar to Ellis, Zgonina boasts a background as a player, having played for several teams including the Rams, Dolphins, Steelers, Panthers, Falcons, Texans, and Colts. Notably, Zgonina was a member of the 1999 Rams team that clinched the Super Bowl victory.
