Dallas Cowboys announce coaching changes

The Dallas Cowboys have confirmed that they have hired Scott Linehan as their new passing-game coordinator and have promoted Rod Marinelli to defensive coordinator.

The moves come as the Cowboys failed to reach the post-season for the fourth year in a row, as their defense was criticised for giving up over 6,000 yards and their play-calling on the offensive side of the ball was also maligned.

As a result, last season's defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin has been switched to assistant head coach along with a role on defense, and Linehan will take over play-calling duties from offensive coordinator Bill Callahan, who remains in his position.

"Our responsibility is to bring quality people into our organisation and find the best fit for them. That applies to players, and it applies to coaches," head coach Jason Garrett told the club's official website.

The Cowboys finished the 2013 season with an 8-8 record.