Cowboys Defensive Players Held Team Meeting
Defensive players met to address performance issues after the team allowed 419 yards in a loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Football
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Dallas Cowboys defensive players held a meeting on Monday to discuss struggles following a loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The organization also hired Mike Pettine to the defensive staff to help improve defensive performance.
Why it matters
The team is seeking to address a defensive slump that has seen them allow at least 375 yards in five consecutive games. With a 2-3 record, the Cowboys are looking for solutions before their upcoming matchup.
The defense currently ranks 31st in total yards allowed per game at 395.4 and 26th in scoring defense, allowing 27.2 points per game. The unit has struggled against the run, permitting 168.4 yards per game on average.
The players
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys are a professional football team based in the Dallas area that competes in the National Football League.
Mike Pettine
Mike Pettine is a veteran defensive coach recently hired to provide additional support to the Dallas Cowboys defensive staff.
The details
Players gathered to discuss the unit's performance as the team looks to stabilize following a 2-3 start to the season. Veteran coach Mike Pettine was brought on to support the defensive staff as they prepare for the next opponent.
Timeline
Defensive players held a team meeting on Monday morning, October 12, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The meeting and staff addition signal an urgent attempt to course-correct the team's defensive identity before the season's playoff picture crystallizes further. This move aims to prevent a continued slide that could jeopardize the team's standing in the NFC division rankings.
The team's defensive unit must significantly reduce its 168.4 yards per game rushing allowance to remain competitive in future matchups. Fantasy managers should monitor the defensive production closely as the coaching staff implements adjustments over the next 10 days.
The takeaway
The team is prioritizing internal communication and experienced coaching to reverse their current trend of high defensive yardage totals. Implementing these changes quickly is essential for the Cowboys to stabilize their record as they move past the early weeks of the season.
What happens next
The Dallas Cowboys have 10 days of preparation time before their game against the Green Bay Packers.
Further reading
For more news on the team, visit the Dallas Football section.
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When a professional team struggles, should fans hold the players or the coaching staff more accountable?
