Will Brian Schottenheimer be the next head coach of the Dallas Cowboys? That’s what reports state.
The Dallas Cowboys are one of the most storied franchises in NFL history, and with that legacy comes constant pressure to succeed. Despite consistent playoff appearances in recent years, the Cowboys have not made it back to the Super Bowl since the 1995 season. This ongoing pursuit of championship glory has led to the team’s current coaching search, following the departure of Mike McCarthy after another early playoff exit in 2023.
As reports circulate, many believe that Brian Schottenheimer, the Cowboys’ current offensive coordinator, could be the next head coach of the team. Schottenheimer’s name has surfaced prominently in discussions surrounding McCarthy’s exit, and his potential promotion has drawn attention from analysts, fans, and experts alike. As the coaching carousel in the NFL spins, the question remains: Will Brian Schottenheimer become the next head coach of the Dallas Cowboys?
This article takes a deep dive into the factors that could lead to Schottenheimer’s promotion, his qualifications and coaching philosophy, and how his leadership could impact the Cowboys as they look to finally return to championship glory. We’ll explore the potential pros and cons of this decision and analyze whether Schottenheimer is truly the right fit to lead the Cowboys into a new era.
The Coaching Search: Dallas Cowboys at a Crossroads
The Dallas Cowboys are a team steeped in tradition, yet their championship success has been limited in recent decades. In an era where winning is everything, Jerry Jones—owner and general manager—has always been heavily involved in the team’s decisions. Despite his willingness to make bold moves, including firing coaches and hiring high-profile figures, the Cowboys have not managed to reach the ultimate goal: a Super Bowl victory.
The team’s most recent coaching hire was Mike McCarthy, who took over in 2020 after the departure of long-time head coach Jason Garrett. McCarthy brought a Super Bowl championship pedigree to Dallas, having led the Green Bay Packers to victory in Super Bowl XLV. However, despite impressive regular season records and explosive offensive performances, McCarthy’s Cowboys repeatedly faltered in the playoffs, leaving many to wonder if a change was needed.
In 2023, McCarthy’s Cowboys came up short in the NFC Championship Game, once again falling to an opponent that outperformed them in crucial moments. With another season of underachievement, Jones made the decision to part ways with McCarthy, signaling that the Cowboys were once again ready for a change. The search for a new head coach began almost immediately.
As the coaching search unfolded, one name stood out above the rest: Brian Schottenheimer. Schottenheimer has been the offensive coordinator for the Cowboys since 2023, working alongside McCarthy and providing his expertise in developing the team’s offensive game plan. Schottenheimer’s background, reputation, and familiarity with the Cowboys’ offensive system have made him a natural candidate to take over the team’s coaching reins.
Brian Schottenheimer: A Brief Overview of His Career
Before delving into whether Schottenheimer is the right fit to be the next head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, it’s important to understand his coaching journey and qualifications.
Brian Schottenheimer is no stranger to NFL coaching. He began his coaching career as a quarterbacks coach with the New York Jets in 2006 before being promoted to offensive coordinator in 2008. Schottenheimer held the offensive coordinator role with the Jets for several seasons, developing the team’s offense alongside the rise of quarterback Mark Sanchez. During his tenure, Schottenheimer was praised for his ability to balance the running and passing games, developing a system that maximized the strengths of his quarterbacks and skill players.
Following his time with the Jets, Schottenheimer served in offensive coordinator roles with the St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks, and Indianapolis Colts. Notably, during his time with the Seahawks, Schottenheimer helped Russell Wilson elevate his play, turning the Seahawks into perennial Super Bowl contenders and helping them secure a victory in Super Bowl XLVIII. Schottenheimer is known for his ability to adapt his offensive scheme to fit the strengths of his players and develop quarterbacks, which has been a key part of his success in the NFL.
Schottenheimer’s arrival in Dallas in 2023 was seen as a potential turning point for the Cowboys’ offense. Under his tutelage, the Cowboys’ offense became more diverse and explosive, with Dak Prescott performing at a high level in both the passing and running game. Schottenheimer’s focus on balanced playcalling, attacking the defense from all angles, and making adjustments in key moments helped elevate the Cowboys’ offensive production.
Given Schottenheimer’s track record of success and his familiarity with the Cowboys’ roster, it’s no surprise that he has emerged as a serious candidate to replace McCarthy. But would promoting him to head coach be the right decision for a team that’s still searching for its next championship?
The Case for Brian Schottenheimer as the Next Head Coach
1. Familiarity with the Team’s Personnel
One of the biggest advantages Schottenheimer brings to the table is his intimate knowledge of the Cowboys’ roster and offensive system. As the team’s offensive coordinator, Schottenheimer has developed close working relationships with key players like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Tony Pollard. He understands their strengths and weaknesses and knows how to build an offense that maximizes their potential.
By promoting Schottenheimer to head coach, the Cowboys would benefit from continuity in their offensive scheme. Prescott would continue to operate within a system he’s familiar with, which could reduce the growing pains often associated with a new head coach. Additionally, Schottenheimer’s experience working with quarterbacks and developing offensive systems could help unlock the full potential of the Cowboys’ high-powered offense.
2. Offensive Expertise and Success
Schottenheimer has a long history of success as an offensive mind. His ability to adapt to different teams and situations has been a key factor in his career. In particular, Schottenheimer’s work with Russell Wilson in Seattle helped the Seahawks become one of the most dynamic offenses in the NFL during their Super Bowl run. Similarly, Schottenheimer’s work with Dak Prescott has resulted in a more efficient and effective offense for the Cowboys.
As head coach, Schottenheimer would bring an offensive mindset that aligns with the current makeup of the Cowboys’ roster. Prescott is at his best when he has a balanced offense that incorporates both the run and pass game. Schottenheimer has shown a knack for creating this balance, which is crucial for the Cowboys as they continue to compete in a tough NFC East division and an even tougher NFC conference overall.
3. Ability to Adapt and Adjust
In the NFL, one of the most important qualities a head coach can possess is the ability to adjust. Schottenheimer has proven time and time again that he is capable of adapting his offensive philosophy to fit his personnel. This was evident during his time with the Seahawks when he helped create a scheme that played to Russell Wilson‘s strengths, blending elements of the passing and running games to keep defenses guessing.
Schottenheimer’s ability to make in-game adjustments and call plays that keep defenses off balance could be exactly what the Cowboys need. The ability to develop and tweak offensive strategies to counter opposing defenses is an essential skill that has been lacking in Dallas in recent years, particularly in critical playoff moments.
4. A New Era for the Cowboys
Hiring Schottenheimer would signify a clear shift in direction for the Cowboys. While Schottenheimer is certainly familiar with the team’s offensive system, he is also a fresh face with a new perspective. Given that the Cowboys have experienced consistent playoff frustration in recent years, a new head coach who can instill a renewed sense of energy, urgency, and accountability could be just what the team needs.
Schottenheimer’s no-nonsense coaching style and his reputation for demanding excellence could help shift the culture in Dallas. His focus on offensive efficiency, balance, and adaptability would bring a fresh sense of optimism and direction to a team that has fallen short in recent seasons.
The Case Against Brian Schottenheimer as the Next Head Coach
While Schottenheimer’s familiarity with the team and his offensive expertise make him an appealing candidate, there are several reasons why promoting him to head coach might not be the best choice for the Cowboys.
1. Lack of Head Coaching Experience
Although Schottenheimer has a wealth of experience as an offensive coordinator, he has never been a head coach in the NFL. The transition from coordinator to head coach is one that many have struggled with, as it requires a completely different skill set. As head coach, Schottenheimer would have to manage the entire team, handle personnel decisions, and navigate the high expectations that come with being the Cowboys’ leader.
Given the importance of the head coach’s role in managing all aspects of the team, some might argue that Schottenheimer may not be the best fit to take on such a high-pressure job. The Cowboys may prefer a coach with more experience in managing an entire team and executing game plans on both sides of the ball.
2. Playoff Success Still Unproven
Although Schottenheimer has had success as an offensive coordinator, he has yet to prove himself in the most critical moments: the playoffs. The Cowboys’ recent playoff exits have exposed several weaknesses, and many fans and analysts believe the team needs a coach who can get them over the hump in January. Schottenheimer’s inability to secure playoff success in his previous roles raises questions about whether he has what it takes to succeed at the highest level of the game.
3. Defensive Focus May Be Needed
Another concern with promoting Schottenheimer to head coach is that the Cowboys’ defense has been one of the team’s biggest strengths in recent years. Dan Quinn, the current defensive coordinator, has been a key figure in the Cowboys’ rise to defensive prominence, and many believe that the Cowboys should prioritize keeping their defensive system intact. If Schottenheimer were promoted, there could be a risk of upsetting the balance between offense and defense, potentially weakening a defense that has been a game-changer for the Cowboys.
Will Brian Schottenheimer Be the Next Head Coach of the Dallas Cowboys?
There is no doubt that Brian Schottenheimer has the qualifications and experience to be a successful head coach in the NFL. His offensive expertise, adaptability, and familiarity with the Cowboys’ roster make him a strong candidate for the position. However, his lack of head coaching experience and the need for a strong defensive presence may leave some wondering whether he is the right choice for a team that is looking to return to Super Bowl contention.
As the Cowboys continue their search for a new head coach, it’s clear that Schottenheimer’s name will remain a significant part of the conversation. Whether or not he becomes the next head coach of the Dallas Cowboys will ultimately depend on Jerry Jones’ decision-making, but one thing is certain: the future of the franchise hinges on the right leadership and vision. Only time will tell if Brian Schottenheimer is the man to lead the Cowboys to their next Super Bowl victory.
