When new coaches are hired in the NFL, they typically bring their ‘guys’ with them, whether it is coaches on their prior staff they're familiar with or players they know and trust. The Dallas Cowboys' new defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer, is certainly no different.
With coaches like Jeff Zgonina and Greg Ellis coming to mind, Zimmer has officially had his hands all over the makeup of this defensive unit. However, one of the most important additions Zimmer has made is not a coach but a player—Eric Kendricks.
The long-time Minnesota Viking and Zimmer confidant was brought in to lead this defense, and as he settles into that role, his message this week needs to be understood by all.