Cowboys Poach Georgia’s Defensive Prodigy: A Game-Changing Move Unveiled

In a swift move that has caught the attention of football insiders everywhere, the Dallas Cowboys have added a fresh face to their coaching ensemble, bringing in Chidera Uzo-Diribe as the new outside linebackers coach. Known for carving out a reputation as a top-tier rising star in college football coaching circles, Uzo-Diribe transitions from the powerhouse program at the University of Georgia to the Cowboys’ revamped defensive squad. This addition isn’t just a hire; it hints at a thoughtful evolution in Dallas’s defensive strategy, possibly shifting towards a more dynamic 3-4 base that places greater responsibility on the OLB position – a pivotal role in modern defense schemes. Having earned his stripes from collegiate programs such as Kansas and SMU, and most notably contributing to Georgia’s National Championship-winning defense, Uzo-Diribe’s track record suggests he’s more than ready for the NFL challenge. Under new defensive coordinator Christian Parker’s leadership, this hire adds an intriguing layer to Dallas’s defensive makeover — one that fans and analysts alike should watch closely in the seasons ahead. LEARN MORE

Less than a day after welcoming their new defensive line coach, the Dallas Cowboys are hiring University of Georgia defensive assistant Chidera Uzo-Diribe to the staff as the outside linebackers coach.

The rising-star received interest from multiple teams in recent years and now lands in Dallas under new defensive coordinator Christian Parker. Dallas had also interviewed Steelers OLB coach Denzel Martin for the position.

The #Cowboys are expected to hire Georgia’s Chidera Uzo-Diribe as outside linebackers coach, sources tell @CBSSports.

Uzo-Diribe, who has been considered a top rising star in the college coaching space, had worked under Kirby Smart at Georgia since 2022. Now headed to Dallas. pic.twitter.com/MXBT8sjvze

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) February 3, 2026

The addition of Uzo-Diribe signals a potential schematic shift which could indicate a Cowboys move from their traditional even front to a 3-4 defensive base, making the OLB job a particularly important role. He also has experience developing hybrid edge players that fit multiple fronts.

Uzo-Diribe, 33, was a standout defensive end from the university of Colorado and coached the defensive line at SMU in 2021. He followed head coach Sonny Dykes to TCU after the 2021 season before eventually landing at Georgia. He also served as the outside linebacker’s coach for the Kansas Jayhawks during the 2019 and 2020 seasons.

With Georgia, he helped the Bulldogs win a National Championship in 2022 which featured a defense that ranked first in rushing defense, fifth in scoring defense, and ninth in total defense. That team boasted All-American players such as defensive lineman Jalen Carter, now of the Philadelphia Eagles and Freshman of the Year finalist Malakai Starks, now of the Baltimore Ravens.

He now joins Marcus Dixon (DL Coach), Ryan Smith (CB coach), and Derrick Ansley (DB coach/ defensive passing game coordinator) as the newest members of this remade defensive staff that is devoid of nepotism.

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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Georgia’s Chidera Uzo-Diribe expected to join Cowboys defensive staff