Dallas will run a 3‑4 base defense this season, the first time since 2012, as new defensive coordinator Christian Parker announced. Parker emphasized a multiple‑front approach, using 4‑3 spacing and 4‑2‑5 nickel coverage to adapt to personnel.
The Cowboys have historically used a 4‑3 defense, winning all five Super Bowls with that scheme. They first switched to a 3‑4 in 2005 under Bill Parcells, stayed until 2013, and experimented with hybrid and nickel fronts in recent years.