The Dallas Cowboys are facing growing criticism over their defensive struggles, and for the first time in a long while, their most powerful voice Jerry Jones is openly taking the blame.

Jones has acknowledged that the team’s lack of defensive identity stems in part from his own decisions, citing coordinator turnover, inconsistency, and a locker room void of leadership as core issues.

For an organization known for its swagger, this is an unusually candid admission from the top of the Cowboys’ hierarchy. In a recent media session, Jones did not shy away from accountability.

“We’ve had three different defensive coordinators over the last three years. That’s my fault. That really is,” Jones said.

He also emphasized what he believes is missing most on that side of the ball: leadership. According to Jones, the defense is suffering from “a leaderless group,” and that reality has contributed to repeated breakdowns in communication and execution.

The numbers back up his frustration. The Cowboys currently sit in the bottom tier of the league for yards allowed and have surrendered multiple big-play touchdowns in recent weeks.

Despite an offense led by Dak Prescott that has shown signs of life, their inability to hold leads or get critical stops is undermining their season.

Leadership vacuum at the core of Dallas’ problems

For decades, Jerry Jones has been a hands-on owner – sometimes to his own detriment. His decision-making has shaped the defensive unit, from coaching hires to personnel moves.

The revolving door of defensive coordinators has created a lack of continuity. Players have had to adapt to new systems, new terminology, and different expectations year after year.

Such instability can fracture even a talented roster. Without an established voice to rally around, the defensive side of the locker room has lacked a commanding presence.

In previous years, leaders like DeMarcus Ware or Sean Lee set a clear tone. Now, with no player clearly filling that role, the result is a unit that often looks disjointed under pressure.

Adding to the challenge is the absence of veteran leadership capable of steering younger players. While stars like Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs bring elite talent, they’re still emerging voices in the locker room.

Jones is calling not just for schematic improvements but for a cultural shift – one where accountability comes from within the roster, not just the coaching staff.

“We’ve got to have players who are willing to take the reins,” Jones explained. “We need that on this defense. And that’s something I take responsibility for. We haven’t had the kind of consistency you need to build that kind of leadership.”

Jones’ ownership role under the spotlight

The Cowboys‘ defensive issues can’t be separated from Jones‘ approach to leadership and control.

As both owner and de facto general manager, he has a direct hand in roster construction and staff hires. His openness in taking the blame may signal recognition that his strategy needs to change.

New hire incoming?

Fans and analysts have already started speculating about whether Jones will prioritize hiring a defensive coordinator with a long-term plan and giving that person the freedom to build an identity.

Historically, Dallas has cycled through coordinators quickly, never allowing one voice to truly define the defense. That instability is something contenders like the San Francisco 49ers or Baltimore Ravens have avoided.

Those franchises are known for defensive continuity and culture. For Dallas to truly contend, Jones may need to step back from day-to-day decisions and empower football minds to lead.

This season’s struggles have only underscored the urgency. With stars like Parsons in their prime, the window for a championship is open now – but it won’t stay open forever.