Mike Nolan & Jim Tomsula

The defense is what’s going to have the newest look. McCarthy brought in Mike Nolan who spent 2019 as the New Orleans Saints’ linebackers coach. In addition to Nolan, Jim Tomsula was brought in to get more out of the defensive line.

The Cowboys already are seeing differences. Veteran cornerback Chidobe Awuzie already said it’s a different feel. He said that last year, it was too predictable. This year, Nolan brings disguises to the defense but more importantly a hybrid type scheme. The Cowboys have used four down defensive lineman in a 4-3 defense in recent years. This also changes. Nolan brings a 3-4 look and that means some of these defensive ends will be standing up in a 2-point stance for the first time in their career.

Speaking of these defensive lineman becoming linebackers, Tomsula was given an early Christmas gift when the team spent some money on beefing up the interior. Gerald McCoy and Dontari Poe will be the mass that will clog the run while the edge is where the Cowboys will have their best rotation on paper in years. The Cowboys took a gamble on defensive end Aldon Smith and it’s already paid off with his immediate reinstatement.

There are still questions if Randy Gregory will see the field in 2020 but just in case he doesn’t, the Cowboys decided to add yet another Pro-Bowl defensive end in Everson Griffen. Not to mention you already have an elite pass rusher in Demarcus Lawrence and a returning Tyrone Crawford. Tomsula will have a rotation in which he’s never had before. He also has players on this defensive line that will be standing up and playing an outside linebacker role. Think Demarcus Ware.

Both of these defensive coaches bring their experience, scheme, and most importantly their intensity. Expect more out of the defense in 2020.