Cowboys blindsided as NFC team blocks defensive coordinator interview request

Atlanta Falcons v Dallas Cowboys - NFL Preseason 2025 | Sam Hodde/GettyImagesThe Dallas Cowboys' search for a new defensive coordinator is officially underway.

Per reports, Dallas has requested interviews with Broncos defensive passing game coordinator and assistant head coach Jim Leonhard, Vikings passing game coordinator Daronte Jones, and Browns safeties coach Ephraim Banda. It is an encouraging sign that the process has started with well-regarded assistants who haven't called plays in the NFL or served as head coaches.

The Cowboys hoped to add a fourth name to the mix, but they were denied by the Falcons to talk with defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, per ESPN's Todd Archer. Since…