Cowboys defense still struggling three seasons after Dan Quinn exit

Dallas already used 12 defensive backs in three games

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 2h1 min read

Everything on defense is a problem — and has been in the three seasons since Dan Quinn left as the DC. Via @WerderEdNFL on X

What happened: Dallas added cornerback Joey Porter Jr. ahead of games at Houston and home against Tampa Bay. The club has already used 12 defensive backs through three games.

Why it matters: The heavy rotation points to an unsettled secondary three seasons after Dan Quinn left as defensive coordinator. Porter arrives after 52 tackles, one sack and one interception in 14 games in 2025, adding outside coverage depth.

By the numbers: Porter: 52 tackles, 1 sack, 1 INT in 14 games in 2025; drafted 32nd overall in 2023 out of Penn State. Dallas: 12 defensive backs used in first three games.

What to watch: Porter was ruled out for Thursday in Cleveland and could make his Dallas debut Sunday against the Texans.

Sources

@WerderEdNFL 2026-10-01T15:35:20.283187+00:00

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