It has been over three months since the Dallas Cowboys hired Christian Parker to be their new defensive coordinator, and the outpouring of support hasn’t stopped. The immediate reaction to Parker’s hiring was overwhelmingly positive, which has become a theme when one of his former players or coaching brethren is asked about the first-time DC.
Former Denver Broncos and Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons was the latest to praise Parker, saying the Cowboys should be “excited” about the hire. Simmons, who played for three seasons under Parker with the Broncos, earning Second-Team All-Pro honors in each of those three campaigns, added his seal of approval.
Simmons led the NFL in the interceptions under Parker in 2022 with six, and had 13 picks during those three years. He recently retired, but Simmons was regarded as one of the best safeties in the game during his nine years in the league, with his best seasons coming under Parker.
As a defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator, Parker has coached an All-Pro in three of the last four years, including schooling two All-Pro’s last season with the Philadelphia Eagles in Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean.
The Cowboys are hoping that trend continues with their group in the secondary. Cornerback DaRon Bland already has an All-Pro season to his name, and big things are expected from rookie first-round pick Caleb Downs, so there’s talent for Parker to mold.
Another day, another positive review for the Cowboys and their hiring of Christian Parker. Major improvements are expected this season for Dallas’ defense, and Parker’s the biggest reason for optimism.
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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Accolades continue for Cowboys big defensive addition, All-Pro weighs in
Reporting by Ben Grimaldi, Cowboys Wire / Cowboys Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Ben Grimaldi, Cowboys Wire | USA TODAY Network
