In a recent development, it has been reported that the Dallas Cowboys plan to retain their defensive coordinator, Dan Quinn, if he fails to secure a head coaching position elsewhere. The Cowboys took a similar approach last season when they announced the departure of offensive coordinator Kellen Moore after he missed out on the opportunity to become the head coach for the Carolina Panthers.

According to Ed Werder of ESPN, Quinn has completed two out of five scheduled interviews for head coaching positions with other teams. If he is unable to secure a head coaching job, the Cowboys are expected to welcome him back as their defensive coordinator for the upcoming season.

While Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, who himself has been confirmed to return for the final year of his contract, did not provide a definitive answer on Quinn's future, he acknowledged Quinn as a highly-valued member of the coaching staff. McCarthy stated, "Dan is a highly-valued member of our coaching staff. We'll go through the process here," as shared by Schuyler Dixon of the Associated Press.

It was widely speculated that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones had plans to replace McCarthy with Quinn in the future. However, after the Cowboys' disappointing loss to the Green Bay Packers, where the defense allowed a franchise-worst 48 points in the playoffs, Quinn's potential promotion may face resistance from the fan base.

Critics on social media, acting as "Monday morning quarterbacks," have been quick to point out that Quinn's defense employed more zone coverage against the Packers than they had throughout the season. This strategic change failed to deliver the desired results, as the Cowboys allowed crucial points, including a pick-six and a 19-yard drive following a Dak Prescott interception. Additionally, the defense failed to generate any takeaways or sacks during the game.

As the search for head coaches continues across the league, it remains to be seen whether Quinn will find an opportunity elsewhere or make a return to the Cowboys as their defensive coordinator. The decision, ultimately, will shape the future of the team's defensive unit for the upcoming season.