Rod Marinelli named defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys

DALLAS, Jan. 29 (UPI) -- The Dallas Cowboys announced on Tuesday that former defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin will be demoted and that Rod Marinelli will be taking over his duties for the 2014 season.

Kiffin will remain with the organization as an assistant head coach. Under Kiffin in 2013, the Dallas defense allowed 6,645 yards, the third-most allowed in NFL history.

"Rod Marinelli's production in terms of creating turnovers and changing field position as a defensive coordinator is well-documented,” head coach Jason Garrett said a press release.

"Monte Kiffin's overall knowledge and understanding of this defensive scheme will be put to use in mentoring all of the players and coaches on the defensive side of the ball. Monte was brought here to direct a transition in philosophy to the 4-3 scheme, and he will continue to oversee the development of our defense in this scheme."

In 2013, Marinelli was the Cowboys' defensive line coach. He holds the distinction of coaching the Detroit Lions to the NFL's first 0-16 regular-season record in 2008.

In a related move, the team announced that Scott Linehan will call offensive plays for the Cowboys and serve as a "passing-game coordinator." Linehan was with the Detroit Lions in 2013.

"The opportunity to add someone of Scott Linehan's expertise and experience will benefit our offensive unit, and we believe the combination of him and Bill Callahan working closely together will give us a great chance to build upon the strides we made offensively last year," Garrett said in the release.

Bill Callahan will still be the team's official offensive coordinator in 2014. The Cleveland Browns were reportedly interested in speaking to Callahan about a job, but were denied permission.

[NFL.com] [ESPN]