On February 10, 2024, reports emerged that former Vikings Head Coach Mike Zimmer is rejoining the Dallas Cowboys in a 'Heartwarming Full Circle Moment', taking on the role of Defensive Coordinator (DC). Adam Schefter first reported the news on ESPN's pregame show on February 11, 2024, which was met with mixed reactions. Darren Woodson praised the decision, suggesting Zimmer's hiring would 'shock the system.' However, controversy arose when Rex Ryan, a candidate for the DC position, disputed Schefter's report on air, stating he did not believe Zimmer had been hired yet. Further speculation on February 12, 2024, included rumors that Zimmer might be considered for Head Coach if Mike McCarthy were to be fired, as hinted by a report from DallasCowboysFN.
Rex Ryan disputes Adam Schefter’s Mike Zimmer report after Cowboys interview https://t.co/qvcVqBrTLU https://t.co/f3vHsaLt8L
Rex Ryan disputes Adam Schefter’s Mike Zimmer report after Cowboys interview https://t.co/QivYeUWpq1 https://t.co/S7HCXGc1lX
Never seen anything quite like this. Adam Schefter said Mike Zimmer was hired as Cowboys DC and Rex Ryan, who interviewed for the job, immediately said, "Not real sure about that ... I can honestly say I don’t believe that’s a fact right now.” https://t.co/kZicqSGHKl
KEEPING SECRETS? #Cowboys 'Secret': Mike Zimmer To Be Hired as Head Coach When McCarthy's Fired? https://t.co/8nOYiLeiWL via @DallasCowboysFN
If Adam Schefter says Zimmer is hired, which has been the speculation nationally, I believe it. Maybe the Cowboys didn’t tell Rex Ryan. That was so awkward on the set, nobody asked Ryan about it after he disputed it. Very interesting.
On ESPN’s pregame show that’s on right now, Adam Schefter said Cowboys have hired Mike Zimmer for DC. Rex Ryan, who interviewed for the job, was asked about it on the set and he said Zimmer hasn’t been hired yet. Awkward!
See how Cowboys fans feel about the hiring of Mike Zimmer. https://t.co/HYRnu5NaCQ https://t.co/yt47EuCKpm
SHOCKED! Mike Zimmer vs. Dan Quinn? New Dallas #Cowboys Defensive Coordinator 'Will Shock the System!' Raves Darren Woodson https://t.co/Tgrw2fFv0i via @DallasCowboysFN
Former Vikings Head Coach Mike Zimmer Reportedly Rejoining Cowboys In Heartwarming Full Circle Moment https://t.co/3i66vuUcou