In a move that leans on familiarity rather than flair, the Dallas Cowboys announced Friday night the promotion of offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer to head coach. Schottenheimer, 51, becomes the 10th full-time head coach in franchise history and the ninth hired under owner Jerry Jones since he purchased the team in 1989.
Schottenheimer’s hiring follows the departure of Mike McCarthy, who served as the Cowboys' head coach and offensive play-caller but was let go after a disappointing 7-10 season. While some fans may have hoped for a marquee name like Deion Sanders, Jason Witten, or Robert Saleh, the Cowboys opted for a steady hand within their ranks.
Staying In-House
Schottenheimer is no stranger to Dallas. After joining the team as a consultant in 2022, he was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2023 and held the role through the 2024 season. The decision to promote from within mirrors past Cowboys hires, including Jason Garrett (hired full-time in 2011) and Dave Campo (2000), neither of whom had prior head coaching experience before their appointments.
This continuity is expected to benefit key players like quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, providing stability on offense while the team looks to rebound from last year’s struggles.
A Long Road to the Top
For Schottenheimer, this appointment marks the culmination of nearly three decades in coaching. Beginning as an assistant with the then-St. Louis Rams in 1997, he has served in various roles across nine NFL teams. He is the son of legendary coach Marty Schottenheimer, whose 200 career regular-season wins remain a benchmark of consistency.
While Brian Schottenheimer’s NFL resume is extensive, this will be his first opportunity as a head coach.
A Familiar Pattern
The hire has drawn mixed reactions. Critics see it as a conservative choice, pointing to previous in-house promotions that failed to bring the Cowboys closer to Super Bowl glory. The team's last championship was in 1995, and fans have grown restless as bold moves by other teams have reaped rewards.
Still, supporters argue that Schottenheimer’s experience with the current roster could bring much-needed continuity. His established relationships with players and coaching staff may provide the foundation for a turnaround.
Looking Ahead
As the Cowboys prepare for the 2025 season, Schottenheimer faces the challenge of revitalizing a team that underperformed last year. The decision to stay in-house may not be a splashy headline, but Jones and the Cowboys brass are betting that familiarity and cohesion will prove more effective than chasing a high-profile hire.
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