The latest frontrunner to coach the Cowboys is Brian Schottenheimer.

As the NFL coaching carousel spins, speculation continues to grow regarding who will replace Mike McCarthy as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys. For a franchise that has seen its fair share of ups and downs in recent seasons, the time is now to evaluate the direction of the team and what changes are necessary to take them to the next level. Mike McCarthy, despite his successes and playoff appearances, has failed to lead the Cowboys to the NFC Championship game, leading many to question his future in Dallas.

Among the many names that have emerged as potential successors to McCarthy, one of the most intriguing is Brian Schottenheimer, the Cowboys’ current offensive coordinator. Schottenheimer, who has vast experience coaching at both the NFL and collegiate levels, has slowly but steadily built a reputation as a knowledgeable, detail-oriented coach with a knack for developing offensive systems. His name has been gaining traction as a frontrunner for the Cowboys’ head coaching position, sparking discussions about his qualifications, potential, and the direction he could take the team.

In this piece, we’ll dive into why Schottenheimer is emerging as a leading candidate to replace McCarthy and examine how his background, coaching philosophy, and connection with the Cowboys could make him the perfect choice for the team.

Brian Schottenheimer’s Background and Experience

Brian Schottenheimer comes from a coaching family and has carved out his own path in the NFL with an extensive and diverse coaching career. Born into a football family—his father, Marty Schottenheimer, was a longtime NFL head coach—Brian Schottenheimer has been around the game his entire life. He played college football at the University of Wisconsin, where he was a quarterback, before transitioning to coaching. His career has taken him through various coaching roles, giving him a broad understanding of different offensive systems and philosophies.

Schottenheimer’s NFL coaching journey began in 2001 when he was hired as an offensive assistant for the Washington Football Team. From there, he moved on to several offensive coordinator roles with different teams, including the New York Jets, St. Louis Rams, and Seattle Seahawks. While Schottenheimer’s early years in the NFL were marked by steady progression and solid work with the offenses he managed, it wasn’t until he joined the Seattle Seahawks that his coaching legacy truly began to take shape.

Schottenheimer was the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator from 2018 to 2020, during which time he helped guide the team to consistent playoff appearances. Under his leadership, the Seahawks’ offense became more balanced, with a focus on the run game that allowed quarterback Russell Wilson to thrive in play-action situations. Schottenheimer’s ability to implement a balanced offensive approach while allowing his quarterback to shine was a key component of the Seahawks’ success during his tenure.

In 2021, Schottenheimer joined the Cowboys as their offensive coordinator, tasked with developing a high-powered offense that could complement the team’s strong defense. Under Schottenheimer’s guidance, quarterback Dak Prescott has continued to improve, and the Cowboys have fielded one of the league’s most dynamic offenses. The development of the running game, particularly with Tony Pollard taking on a larger role, has also been a highlight of Schottenheimer’s time in Dallas.

Schottenheimer’s Coaching Philosophy and Style

One of the primary reasons why Brian Schottenheimer is being considered as a top candidate for the Cowboys’ head coach position is his offensive-minded philosophy and versatility. Schottenheimer has been known for his ability to adapt to the strengths of his players and build offensive schemes around their skill sets.

At the core of Schottenheimer’s approach is the importance of a balanced offense. While many modern offenses in the NFL lean heavily on the passing game, Schottenheimer is a firm believer in the power of the running game and play-action passes. His time with the Seattle Seahawks, where he helped revitalize the run game and provide Wilson with opportunities for big-play moments through play action, showed that Schottenheimer can build an offense that can strike quickly while still maintaining balance.

This philosophy has continued into his tenure with the Cowboys, where Schottenheimer has worked to get the most out of both Dak Prescott and the running back committee. With Prescott at quarterback, Schottenheimer has emphasized the importance of quick reads, timing routes, and building rhythm early in games. The focus on the running game has also helped the Cowboys become more physical up front, allowing their offensive line to control the line of scrimmage and open up lanes for Pollard and others.

Another hallmark of Schottenheimer’s coaching style is his commitment to improving individual players. His ability to help quarterbacks reach their full potential has been evident throughout his career, and his work with Prescott has been one of the key reasons for the Cowboys’ offensive success. Schottenheimer’s ability to communicate with his players and adapt to their strengths has made him a well-liked and respected coach among players.

Adapting to Dak Prescott’s Strengths

One of Schottenheimer’s most notable accomplishments with the Cowboys has been his ability to help quarterback Dak Prescott improve his play and regain his form after a difficult injury. Prescott, who has shown flashes of brilliance but has been criticized at times for his inconsistencies, has benefited from Schottenheimer’s coaching. Schottenheimer has worked with Prescott to improve his decision-making, timing, and execution in crucial moments, particularly in high-pressure situations.

Prescott’s development under Schottenheimer is an important factor in why the offensive coordinator is a strong contender to become the Cowboys’ next head coach. If Schottenheimer were to take over as head coach, the trust and rapport he has built with Prescott would provide continuity at the quarterback position. As the Cowboys continue to build around Prescott, having a coach who understands him so well would be a huge asset.

Schottenheimer’s Leadership and Fit with the Cowboys

While Schottenheimer’s technical coaching skills are undoubtedly important, his leadership abilities are equally crucial when considering whether he is the right fit for the Cowboys. As a potential head coach, Schottenheimer would need to step into a leadership role where he would have to manage not only the team’s offense but also its defense and special teams. Fortunately for Schottenheimer, his experience as an offensive coordinator has given him a broad understanding of team dynamics and the importance of communication and collaboration.

Schottenheimer has worked with some of the league’s top coaches over the years, and he has developed a reputation as a patient and methodical leader who can inspire his players to buy into his system. His ability to adapt his strategies to fit the needs of his team has earned him respect, both among the players he coaches and his peers in the coaching community.

In addition, Schottenheimer’s knowledge of the Cowboys’ organization and roster is an asset. Having spent several years as the team’s offensive coordinator, Schottenheimer is already familiar with the team’s culture, strengths, and weaknesses. This familiarity would allow him to step into the head coaching role seamlessly, without a lengthy adjustment period. He would be able to continue working with players like Prescott, Pollard, and the offensive line, while also developing a plan to elevate the Cowboys’ defense to the next level.

Why Schottenheimer Could Be the Perfect Fit for the Cowboys

If the Dallas Cowboys do decide to part ways with Mike McCarthy, Brian Schottenheimer presents an exciting option. His deep understanding of the team, his ability to develop offensive systems that play to the strengths of his players, and his leadership experience make him a logical candidate for the job. Schottenheimer has proven himself to be an adept coach who can adapt to the changing landscape of the NFL while also building a team that plays smart, physical football.

Moreover, Schottenheimer’s experience with quarterbacks and his ability to bring out the best in Dak Prescott will be especially crucial as the Cowboys look to build a Super Bowl-caliber team. Prescott is the centerpiece of the offense, and Schottenheimer’s familiarity with his strengths and weaknesses could lead to even greater success on the field. If Schottenheimer can further unlock Prescott’s potential and build a more balanced, explosive offense, the Cowboys could be poised to make a deep playoff run in the years to come.