Cowboys Predicted to Win NFC East by NFL HC After 'Legit' Mike Pettine Hired to Staff

After the Dallas Cowboys hired veteran NFL coach Mike Pettine as a senior defensive assistant, some around the league feel that they have drastically changed their season outlook.

Cowboys insider Ed Werder spoke to a head coach who had Pettine on his staff, and the coach predicted that the Cowboys are now the favorites to win the NFC East.

"They finally hired a real coach. Pettine is legit. Dallas will walk away with that division now," the coach told Werder.

Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer announced on Monday that Pettine is being brought in to work with defensive coordinator Christian Parker. The 60-year-old is expected to play a major role in helping to turn around a defense that ranks 31st in yards allowed through the first five weeks of the season. Dallas gave up 419 yards to the previously winless Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their 24-16 loss on Thursday Night Football .

While Pettine will be assisting Parker, Werder noted that the power dynamics could shift at some point, as some NFL coaches told him, "The more influence and responsibility Pettine has, the better for the team."

Of note, Parker will now be moving to the coaching booth:

The Cowboys (2-3) will be hoping to see some improvements following Pettine's arrival when they take on the Green Bay Packers (3-2) on Sunday Night Football in Week 6.