Fast forward to now and Eric Kendricks smiles when talking about Mike Zimmer, the Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator. Kendricks spurred an offer from the...
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Eric Kendricks smiles as he gives autographs to young fans during annual home run derby for charity, on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at Riders Field in Frisco .FRISCO — The emotions can affect the context of what’s being said when an NFL season is over. On Jan. 10, 2022, middle linebackerKendricks didn’t give a glowing endorsement, saying, “I don’t think a fear-based organization is the way to go,” when asked about the next coach.
“Yeah absolutely, I always appreciated Zim,” Kendricks said. “Just the amount of defense I learned when I was underneath him. The way I watch film, the way we break things down, the install, a lot of things I learned from Zim and we had some good years and I can’t wait to continue that.” On that video call, Kendricks held back tears discussing teammate Anthony Barr. That 2021 season ended with the Vikings going 8-9, losing two of their last three games. It meant the end of Zimmer’s term as head coach.
The emotions of talking about a season and a tenure bring out so much in players. Kendricks said his ego took over during that call with reporters, particularly when it came to Zimmer. Kendricks was upset about not only a season ending without a playoff appearance but the unknown of working with a new coaching staff. Kendricks said if he didn’t respect Zimmer he wouldn’t be working for him again.“Emotions were high,” he said of his comments on Zimmer back in 2022. “We’re very excited.
Of course, Zimmer’s gruff style isn’t for everyone. The defensive coordinator brings an edge team officials believe this group needs. During last week’s OTAs, the loudest coach on the field, however, was defensive line coach Jeff Zgonia, as he worked that position group in individual drills.“Life’s hard,” he said. “Absolutely. I respect him fully. We’re going to get this thing going. I had a talk with him this past weekend.
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