Updated
The Dallas Cowboys’ disappointing 23-13 loss to the Green Bay Packers has intensified criticism of owner Jerry Jones, with growing questions about whether his approach to coaching salaries is contributing to the team’s struggles.
Dallas suffered its fourth defeat of the 2026 season, managing just 13 points despite having several high-profile offensive weapons. The performance has left fans questioning the coaching staff and the front office’s decisions.
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NFL insider Josina Anderson fueled the debate by suggesting that the Cowboys wanted to keep head coach Brian Schottenheimer and his coordinators below the league’s average salary levels.
“#Cowboys ownership wanted to save on the head coach position salary & Brian Schottenheimer’s coordinators compared to the avg pay in the league for their roles…,” she wrote.
Veteran Cowboys reporter Clarence Hill Jr. reinforced the criticism, arguing that Jones has a reputation for being reluctant to spend generously on coaches.
Schottenheimer reportedly earns around $4.5 million annually, a figure that’s drawn comparisons with the compensation Bill Parcells received during his time in Dallas more than two decades ago.
Critics believe Jones is willing to invest heavily in players but less inclined to pay for experienced coaching leadership.
That approach has become a talking point because the Cowboys possess considerable offensive talent.
Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens should give Dallas the tools to produce more consistently, yet the offense has struggled to deliver when it matters most.
Poor execution, questionable play-calling and an inconsistent running game have all contributed to the team's disappointing results.
Coaching concerns grow as pressure builds
Dallas’ defensive problems have also intensified scrutiny of defensive coordinator Christian Parker, who’s leading a defense for the first time in his career.
Despite arriving with positive expectations, Parker has struggled to establish a dependable unit capable of consistently stopping opposing offenses.
The Cowboys’ latest defeat has raised further doubts about whether adjustments within the current coaching structure will be enough.
Former Dallas star Michael Irvin has expressed concern about the situation, suggesting that coaches he knows could soon face dismissal or reassignment.
Speaking on ESPN’s First Take, Irvin explained that his frustration had developed into worry, particularly given the Cowboys’ repeated struggles in prime-time games.
"I'm beyond being upset and angry at the Cowboys," Irvin said. "I'm now concerned. There is no way you're going to lose the last three primetime games this year, the last five primetime games over the last couple of years and Jerry Jones, who loves to sell the Dallas Cowboys, is going to sit pat.
“So, I'm worried about some of my friends and who's in the hot seat and who's going to be moved around because I know what we see with the Dallas Cowboys cannot continue."
However, Jones and the Cowboys’ leadership have continued expressing confidence in Schottenheimer and the coaching staff.
That public support leaves uncertainty over whether significant changes are coming, even as criticism grows following another disappointing performance.
The debate also recalls the Cowboys’ decision not to hire Ben Johnson, who subsequently became head coach of the Chicago Bears.
Some fans believe Dallas missed an opportunity to secure a highly sought-after coaching candidate, arguing that financial considerations may have influenced the decision.