Phillips reported new Cowboys coach

DALLAS, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- The Dallas Cowboys reportedly have chosen Wade Phillips, the San Diego Chargers' defensive coordinator, as their next head coach.

An official announcement could come Thursday, the Dallas Morning News said.

The apparent choice of Phillips to succeed Bill Parcells came as a surprise to many since Norv Turner, San Francisco's offensive coordinator, had been considered the favorite.

Turner, Dallas' 1991-93 offensive coordinator, was seen as someone who could help develop fledgling quarterback Tony Romo.

Phillips was the first candidate interviewed not to have a tie to the Cowboys. This would be his third full-time head coaching job and the first since leaving Buffalo in 2000.

Owner and general manager Jerry Jones and executive vice president Stephen Jones could not be reached for comment.