Cowboys defensive coordinator opening draws interest from Mike Zimmer.

Before taking the helm as head coach of the Washington Commanders on Thursday, Dan Quinn served as the Cowboys defensive coordinator for the previous three seasons. Dallas’ defense has ranked in the top ten the last two seasons under Quinn.

After being let go by the Vikings at the end of the 2021 season, Zimmer has not been involved in the National Football League. The 67-year-old led the Vikings to a 72-56-1 record over his eight years in that role. Under Zimmer, Minnesota took it to the NFC Championship game in 2017 and won the NFC North twice.

In December, Zimmer expressed his desire to carry on coaching in an interview with NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, saying, “I just think it’s something that’s in your blood.” For a very long period, my dad coached high school football. I adore spending time with the players. I enjoy taking on the challenge of improving an organization.”

Prior to joining the organization in 2000 as the defensive coordinator, Zimmer was the defensive coach for the Dallas Cowboys from 1994 to 1999. McCarthy and Zimmer, the head coach of Dallas at the moment, have a long coaching history dating back to McCarthy’s tenure as the Packers’ head coach from 2006 to 2018.

When asked what he has been doing since he last coached in the NFL, Zimmer replied, “Well, I’ve got about 270 acres in Kentucky so that keeps me a little bit busy.” However, I constructed a little office building where I go to watch a tape, research analytics, and complete various tasks. Thus, simply keeping up with the competition.”

From 2014 to 21, the 67-year-old led the Vikings to a 72-46-1 record, which included three postseason trips and two NFC North championships. In five of his eight years as head coach, the Vikings’ defense ranked among the top ten in the NFL. Zimmer was a defensive specialist.