Clowney and Clark Open Up About Defensive Struggles: ‘We’ve Got to Hold Each Other Accountable’ After another tough game, Jadeveon Clowney and Kenny Clark didn’t hold back when discussing the team’s defensive issues. Both veterans emphasized that talent alone isn’t enough — communication, discipline, and shared accountability are key to turning things around. Their message was clear: it’s time for every player to step up, own their mistakes, and fight together to restore pride in the defense.Ng1

The Dallas Cowboys’ defense — once regarded as one of the most intimidating units in the NFL — is facing hard questions after a series of underwhelming performances this season. Following another disappointing outing, veterans Jadeveon Clowney and Kenny Clark spoke candidly about what’s gone wrong and how the team plans to fix it.

Clowney, who joined the Cowboys as a free agent in September 2025, didn’t shy away from addressing the defensive struggles. “There’s a lot of talent on this roster for us to not be winning consistently,” he said. “We’ve got too many playmakers to let teams move the ball the way they have been. At some point, it’s about accountability — holding each other responsible for what happens on that field.”

The Cowboys’ defense has been plagued by missed assignments, poor tackling, and inconsistent pass rush pressure — a stark contrast to the unit’s dominant form from recent seasons. While the offense, led by quarterback Dak Prescott, has continued to produce at a high level, the defense’s inability to get key stops has cost Dallas several winnable games.

Defensive tackle Kenny Clark echoed Clowney’s sentiments, stressing that leadership and communication are key. “We’ve got to stop pointing fingers and start holding each other accountable,” Clark said. “It starts with practice — knowing your assignments, playing fast, and trusting the guy next to you. When one person is off, the whole defense breaks down.”

Both veterans emphasized the need for unity and self-reflection rather than blame. Clowney, known for his fiery competitiveness, noted that accountability doesn’t just come from coaches. “The coaches can only do so much,” he said. “It’s on us as players. We’re the ones out there. We’ve got to make the plays, bring the energy, and set the tone.”

The Cowboys’ defensive coordinator also acknowledged the group’s frustration but expressed optimism that the leadership of players like Clowney and Clark could spark a turnaround. With a tough stretch of games ahead, the message from inside the locker room is clear — the talent is there, but execution and discipline must match the expectations.

As Dallas looks to regain its defensive identity, the words “hold each other accountable” may become the rallying cry that determines whether this season’s struggles become a turning point — or a missed opportunity.