‘I’m running Venezuela’: Jerry Jones’ Donald Trump reference steals spotlight in Cowboys press conference

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones raised eyebrows this week with an unusual reference to former U.S. President Donald Trump and Venezuela while talking about his team’s search for a new defensive coordinator. The comment came at an end-of-season press conference after the Cowboys fired defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus following a disappointing 2025 campaignThe Cowboys’ defence had one of its worst seasons in franchise history, finishing with the league’s second-highest points allowed per game, and prompting a coaching shake-up. Eberflus, who lasted just one season, was dismissed as the team looks to correct its defensive issues heading into the 2026 season.When asked if head coach Brian Schottenheimer would have the final say in picking the next defensive coordinator, Jones took an unexpected detour. He joked, “Trump just said it. I’m running Venezuela.” The remark drew laughter from Schottenheimer and members of the media, but also quickly made headlines.Soon after, Jones clarified his point. He explained that the decision to hire the next defensive coordinator would not be made by him alone. Instead, it would be a group effort involving the front office and the coaching staff, including head coach Brian Schottenheimer. Jones stressed that Schottenheimer had a strong voice in the previous hiring process as well.Behind the humour, the situation facing the Cowboys is serious. Dallas allowed a franchise-record 511 points during the regular season and finished with a 7-9-1 record, missing the playoffs for the second year in a row. The defensive collapse made Eberflus’ exit almost inevitable.Jones also hinted that the team may change its usual hiring approach. In recent years, Dallas has preferred defensive coordinators with prior head-coaching experience. This time, Jones said the Cowboys are open to fresh ideas and may consider candidates who have never held the role before.The season was further complicated by the trade of star pass rusher Micah Parsons before Week 1. Jones defended the move, saying it gave the franchise salary cap flexibility and valuable draft picks for the future. However, the defense clearly struggled without its best player, adding pressure on the next coordinator to deliver quick results.As the Cowboys prepare for the 2026 season and look to improve a defence that struggled in 2025, the spotlight will remain on this coaching search. Whether Jones’ unconventional style will lead to better results remains to be seen, but for now, his remarks have added an unexpected twist to an already critical offseason for America’s TeamAlso Read: Brett Favre responds after viral post misrepresents his Parkinson’s battle