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Mike Pettine Coming Out Of Retirement To Join Cowboys’ Staff

Mike Pettine’s winter departure from the Vikings’ staff was classified as retirement. But the veteran staffer later said he was not sure if he would return to coaching. Months later, we have more clarity. Pettine is joining the Cowboys’ staff…

Published: Monday, 12 October 2026 at 10:19 PM
Mike Pettine Coming Out Of Retirement To Join Cowboys’ Staff
Key Things to Know
  • Mike Pettine has come out of retirement to join the Dallas Cowboys as a senior defensive assistant.
  • The hiring reunites Pettine with Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker and head coach Brian Schottenheimer.
  • Dallas currently ranks 26th in points allowed, 31st in yardage yielded, and 32nd in EPA per play.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Mike Pettine is coming out of retirement to join the Dallas Cowboys as a senior defensive assistant. The move reunites the 60-year-old coach with head coach Brian Schottenheimer and defensive coordinator Christian Parker. Pettine previously coached alongside Schottenheimer with the New York Jets and worked with Parker during his tenure as defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers.

Pettine joins a Dallas defense that has struggled through five games, ranking near the bottom of the league in points and yards allowed. Schottenheimer noted that Pettine will serve as a front-seven expert to support Parker's secondary-focused background and help boost the team's pass rush.

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