Brian Schottenheimer’s hiring by the Cowboys: winners and losers: Jerry Jones raises eyebrows

The Dallas Cowboys, under the ownership of Jerry Jones, have long been one of the most high-profile teams in the NFL. With a fanbase that spans the globe, a storied history, and championship aspirations that are often just out of reach, the Cowboys are always in the spotlight. As one of the league’s most scrutinized franchises, every move, from player acquisitions to coaching decisions, is carefully analyzed.

The hiring of Brian Schottenheimer as the Cowboys’ new offensive coordinator has caused a stir across the NFL. Schottenheimer, known for his extensive experience as an offensive mind but also for inconsistent results in various previous roles, has raised more than a few eyebrows. While some see it as a necessary shake-up, others are questioning whether Schottenheimer is the right choice to elevate the team to its elusive Super Bowl championship.

In this article, we will break down the winners and losers of Schottenheimer’s hiring. Additionally, we will explore how Jerry Jones’ decision to bring in Schottenheimer has left many asking whether he is the right person to take the Cowboys to the next level, or if it’s just another move that fits into a pattern of unpredictable decisions from the Dallas ownership.

The Winners of Brian Schottenheimer’s Hiring

While the hiring of Brian Schottenheimer has sparked controversy and uncertainty for some, there are a few individuals and groups who stand to benefit greatly from his appointment. Let’s take a closer look at the winners in this scenario.

1. Dak Prescott: A Chance for Rejuvenation

One of the biggest winners of Schottenheimer’s hiring is undoubtedly Dak Prescott. Prescott has long been seen as the cornerstone of the Cowboys’ offense, but his development has often been stunted by inconsistent play, especially in key moments. Under previous offensive coordinators, Prescott has at times struggled with turnovers and decision-making, particularly in crunch-time situations.

Schottenheimer, with his experience coaching quarterbacks like Russell Wilson in Seattle and Mark Sanchez with the Jets, has a track record of working with signal-callers and helping them elevate their play. While Schottenheimer is not regarded as an elite innovator like some other offensive minds in the NFL, his style of offensive coaching could be beneficial for Prescott. His focus on a balanced offensive attack, quick passing games, and emphasizing smart decision-making could give Prescott the structure and stability he needs to thrive.

Schottenheimer’s history of developing quarterbacks in systems that fit their strengths—rather than forcing them into rigid schemes—could help Prescott regain his confidence and continue to grow as a leader of the Cowboys’ offense. This hire could be the spark Prescott needs to perform at a higher level and finally lead the Cowboys to the postseason success that has eluded them for so long.

2. CeeDee Lamb: A Rising Star Gets a Chance to Shine Even More

CeeDee Lamb, the Cowboys’ emerging star wide receiver, is another winner in Schottenheimer’s hiring. Schottenheimer has worked with numerous wide receiver talents throughout his career, including the likes of Marshawn Lynch in Seattle and Santonio Holmes during his time with the Jets. While Schottenheimer is not known for creating explosive offenses, he’s proficient in building schemes that can maximize the potential of his playmakers.

Lamb, who is rapidly establishing himself as one of the top young wide receivers in the NFL, could stand to benefit from Schottenheimer’s emphasis on quick-hitting passing plays and route combinations designed to create separation. Schottenheimer’s willingness to tailor his system to the strengths of his top receiving threat should allow Lamb to reach new heights in 2025, especially if Schottenheimer focuses on using Lamb in a variety of roles—lining him up in the slot, outside, and even occasionally as a motioning threat. Schottenheimer could unlock Lamb’s full potential, especially as Prescott’s primary target.

3. The Cowboys’ Offensive Line: A Return to Balance and Control

The Cowboys’ offensive line has long been one of the league’s most formidable units, but recent struggles—primarily due to injuries and inconsistent play—have made it clear that they need reinforcement. Schottenheimer’s commitment to a balanced offensive attack and run-first philosophy could be exactly what the offensive line needs to regain its dominance.

Schottenheimer has always valued a strong running game, which will force defenses to respect both the pass and the run. This strategy should allow Dallas’ offensive line to be more physical in the trenches, controlling the clock and maintaining a steady flow to the offense. Players like Tyron Smith, Zack Martin, and Tyler Biadasz can return to their prime performances if they are asked to be physical run blockers and provide Prescott with the protection he needs. Schottenheimer’s offensive principles will provide the line with an identity, ensuring they are effective in both the run and pass games.

The Losers of Brian Schottenheimer’s Hiring

While Schottenheimer’s hiring presents a positive outlook for several aspects of the Cowboys’ offense, there are also some notable losers in the equation. Some key figures and elements of the team may not benefit from this decision, and Schottenheimer’s style may not mesh well with all players.

1. Kellen Moore: The Changing of the Guard

For Kellen Moore, Schottenheimer’s appointment represents the end of an era. Moore, who had served as the Cowboys’ offensive coordinator for several seasons, was widely regarded as a rising star in the coaching ranks. Moore’s innovative passing concepts and ability to produce top-tier offensive units with Prescott at the helm made him one of the league’s most talked-about coordinators. However, Moore was eventually let go after the Cowboys’ inability to achieve postseason success, particularly in high-pressure situations.

While Moore may have been a more exciting choice for many Cowboys fans due to his modern offensive concepts, Schottenheimer’s hiring signals a shift toward a more traditional, balanced offensive approach. Moore’s high-octane, pass-heavy style didn’t always resonate with Jerry Jones and the team’s leadership, who likely wanted a change in philosophy. The departure of Moore may lead to friction within the Cowboys’ locker room, particularly among players who thrived in Moore’s system.

2. Tony Pollard: Limited Opportunities in a Run-Heavy Offense?

Tony Pollard, the Cowboys’ explosive running back, might not be thrilled with the hiring of Schottenheimer. While Pollard has been effective as the lead back, showcasing big-play potential as both a rusher and a pass-catcher, Schottenheimer’s offensive philosophy may limit Pollard’s opportunities to make the same kind of impact he had under Moore’s more pass-heavy system.

Schottenheimer’s focus on a balanced running attack with Ezekiel Elliott as the featured back could put Pollard in a lesser role, reducing his chances to shine as the focal point of the offense. While Pollard’s skill set allows him to be utilized in multiple ways, Schottenheimer’s traditional approach might favor a more consistent, physical back like Elliott, which could see Pollard relegated to a complementary role. This could lead to a decline in Pollard’s production, and may even prompt the Cowboys to reexamine his future with the team if he doesn’t get the touches needed to maximize his talent.

3. Jerry Jones: A Decision That Raises Eyebrows

Perhaps the biggest loser in this hiring process is Jerry Jones himself. As the owner and general manager of the Cowboys, Jones has often been a polarizing figure, making decisions that both excite and frustrate fans and analysts alike. His choice to bring in Brian Schottenheimer has raised many eyebrows.

Jones’ decision is seen by some as another example of his tendency to favor familiar faces and trusted figures within the organization, rather than pursuing a more innovative, high-profile option. Schottenheimer’s hiring doesn’t carry the same level of excitement or risk as other potential candidates, especially considering the talent on the roster and the expectations surrounding the Cowboys’ future.

For a team that has repeatedly failed to win in the postseason, many experts believe that the Cowboys needed a more cutting-edge, modern offensive mind to lead the charge—someone who could truly push Prescott and the rest of the offense to new heights. Instead, Schottenheimer represents a safe choice, one that may provide more consistency but lacks the flair and excitement that many fans were hoping for. Jerry Jones, known for his bold decisions in the past, has taken a more conservative route with this hire, and some are wondering whether this will ultimately result in another missed opportunity.The Jury is Still Out

Brian Schottenheimer’s hiring as the Dallas Cowboys’ offensive coordinator is undoubtedly a bold move, but it is one that brings both winners and losers in its wake. For Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and the offensive line, Schottenheimer’s system offers a chance for rejuvenation and the ability to thrive within a balanced, run-first offense. However, for Kellen Moore, Tony Pollard, and Jerry Jones, the decision could represent a step backward, potentially limiting the offensive unit’s explosive potential and raising questions about the Cowboys’ long-term future.

As the season unfolds, it will become clearer whether Schottenheimer’s style can provide the consistency and success that Jerry Jones is hoping for, or whether it will simply be another in a long line of head-scratching moves. For now, the jury is still out on whether Schottenheimer’s hiring will be a turning point in the Cowboys’ quest for a Super Bowl, or if it will be remembered as yet another missed opportunity for a team with so much potential.