The Dallas Cowboys have announced Brian Schottenheimer as their new head coach, choosing someone with a long-standing connection to the organization. Schottenheimer, 51, has been with the team for three seasons, serving two of those as offensive coordinator. Despite not having prior head coaching experience, Schottenheimer’s extensive background as an assistant at both the collegiate and NFL levels made him a favored candidate.
The search for a new head coach saw the Cowboys interviewing several notable names, including former New York Jets coach Robert Saleh, Seattle Seahawks assistant Leslie Frazier, and Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. Other potential candidates, such as Deion Sanders and Pete Carroll, were also considered, though Carroll accepted a position with the Las Vegas Raiders before the Cowboys made their decision.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones personally led the hiring process. While Schottenheimer’s selection may not generate widespread excitement among fans, Jones expressed satisfaction with the outcome. Reflecting on the decision, he told ESPN, “He’s no assistant anymore,” signaling his confidence in Schottenheimer’s ability to step into the head coach role.
Mike McCarthy’s Departure
The Cowboys’ coaching change came after Mike McCarthy completed the final year of his contract. Following discussions at the end of a disappointing 7-10 season, the team and McCarthy mutually agreed to part ways. The season had been challenging, particularly with the absence of franchise quarterback Dak Prescott for part of the year.
McCarthy’s tenure included three consecutive 12-win regular seasons, but the team managed only one playoff victory during that time. Despite this, Jones acknowledged McCarthy’s positive contributions to the organization, stating, “Throughout Mike McCarthy’s tenure here, including the last several weeks, I have been very complimentary of the job he has done. That has applied to our record over that time period, our team unity and culture, Mike’s qualifications and track record of success, and on a personal level as a tremendous human being.”
Jones also emphasized the mutual nature of the decision, saying, “Prior to reaching the point of contract negotiations, it became mutually clear that it would be better for each of us to head in a different direction. I thank Mike and wish him, his wife Jessica, and their family the best. They have been a wonderful part of our community here.”
Assembling the Coaching Staff
Schottenheimer faces the immediate task of building his coaching staff, and reports indicate that former Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus is a top target for the role of defensive coordinator. Ed Werder was the first to report the Cowboys’ interest in Eberflus, who previously worked with Dallas as a linebackers coach and defensive passing game coordinator.
Eberflus would inherit a defense that includes standout players like Micah Parsons. The perennial Pro Bowler is entering his fifth season and is expected to sign a significant contract extension this offseason. With Parsons anchoring the defense, Eberflus would have a strong foundation to build upon if he joins the Cowboys.
Offensive Continuity
On the offensive side, the Cowboys have maintained some consistency by extending quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Schottenheimer’s transition from offensive coordinator to head coach provides further stability, which could be crucial as the team works to improve its performance.
The Cowboys also hold the 12th overall pick in the upcoming draft, giving them an opportunity to address roster needs and strengthen their squad. With Schottenheimer at the helm, Dallas will aim to maximize its talent and return to playoff contention.
In summary, the Cowboys’ decision to hire Schottenheimer reflects a blend of familiarity and trust in his abilities. While the move may not be a blockbuster choice, Jones’s confidence in Schottenheimer suggests that the organization is looking for stability and a renewed sense of direction. As the offseason unfolds, assembling a strong coaching staff and capitalizing on key roster pieces will be critical to the team’s success under its new head coach.
