In the face of criticism and name-calling, seasoned coach Mike Zimmer is prepared to turn a blind eye and carry the baton for Cowboy’s defense.
Akin to a hardened war veteran, Zimmer has no regard for the naysayers who label him as a “jerk”.
New Cowboys defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer refutes notion he’s a "jerk." https://t.co/j7fvFhnyeT
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) February 15, 2024
Unwavering and committed, he now sits as the Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator, a role introduced to him on Wednesday.
The Cowboys will witness a new defensive strategy under Mike Zimmer, sidelining Dan Quinn, who served as their brain for four years before ascending to become the head coach for the Commanders.
“There’s a reputation out there that I’m a jerk or something like that,” Zimmer said. “It is what it is, I guess. But you know, since it was announced I was going to be here, I’ve heard from so many players that played for me. Players here, not just defensive backs, the linebackers and defensive linemen have texted me and said how happy they were for me. I think if I was such a jerk I wouldn’t be hearing from those guys.”
You might not instantly foster an affinity for Zimmer, but according to Vikings safety Harrison Smith, his coaching style is an “acquired taste.”
Zimmer’s impactful years from 2014 to 2021 saw Smith adapt and appreciate the coach’s unique approach, which might feel harsh but is focused on nurturing exceptional players.
Darren Woodson, the former Cowboys safety who thrived under Zimmer from 1994 to 2003, sustains that players need time to acclimate to Zimmer’s ‘tough love’ approach. His methods may feel edged, but the outcomes, every player can vouch for.
“The ones who want to be great, they want to be coached,” Zimmer sternly put it. “There’s a lot more social media. There’s a lot more of the outside stuff going on. The ones I have been around, the young guys, the ones that want to be great, they want to be coached. They want to study. They want to understand how they can get better. Most all the great players, they want to know, ‘How can you make me better?’”
Zimmer shared how he notwithstandingly pushed former Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes, the 25th overall selection in 2013.
His relentless efforts resulted in Rhodes being selected to three Pro Bowls, establishing a testament to his coaching style.
Despite the rigorous training sessions, Rhodes maintains a good relationship with Zimmer, acknowledging his coach’s significant contribution to his career.
“Xavier Rhodes called me probably five months ago,” Zimmer said. “I was on his rear end every day about being disciplined, getting the right footwork, all this stuff. He became a terrific player, and he called me and he just said, ‘Coach, I know how hard you were on me, but I appreciate what you’ve done for me and the family’ and things like that. You hear that. I was probably too hard on a lot of players, but I’ve heard it several times. It makes you feel good that they understand that you’re just trying to help them. You’re not just out to be a mean guy or something like that.”
Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro players, successful teams – Zimmer’s robust track record speaks volumes.
True, Zimmer’s methods might not win him popularity polls initially; however, players eventually learn the truth behind his hardened methods preparing them to be the best.
