In a surprising turn of events, the Dallas Cowboys have reportedly decided to name Brian Schottenheimer as their new head coach. Despite speculation surrounding high-profile candidates like Deion Sanders, owner Jerry Jones appears set on keeping the hire in-house, continuing a tradition of familiarity and control within the organization.
Cowboys Favor Brian Schottenheimer Over Deion Sanders
The Cowboys’ decision to promote Schottenheimer, their offensive coordinator, reflects Jones’ preference for continuity and cost-effectiveness. Schottenheimer, 51, joined the team in 2022 as a coaching analyst before stepping into the offensive coordinator role in 2023. Though he didn’t call plays under former head coach Mike McCarthy, his influence on the Cowboys’ offensive strategy has been clear.
According to Clarence Hill of All City DFW, the deal is expected to be finalized within days, with Schottenheimer becoming the betting favorite earlier this week.
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This hire aligns with Jones’ history of promoting individuals already familiar with the organization, such as Jason Garrett and Dave Campo—both of whom lacked prior head coaching experience.
Jones’ preference for Schottenheimer may also stem from the coach’s deep NFL roots. The son of legendary coach Marty Schottenheimer, Brian brings a wealth of inherited football knowledge. Furthermore, Schottenheimer’s lack of other head coaching interviews makes him an affordable choice, allowing Jones to allocate more money toward players while maintaining significant control over team operations.
Big Names Backing Up Brian Schottenheimer as the Best Choice for Cowboys
The decision has received notable endorsements from within and beyond the Cowboys organization. Quarterback Dak Prescott, a key figure in the locker room, has been vocal about his support for Schottenheimer.
Cowboys QB Dak Prescott (probably) texted @clarencehilljr during @DLLS_Cowboys with his thoughts on Brian Schottenheimer possibly becoming the next head coach…
Prescott saying: “He’ll be ready for the next step. He has the right personality and brain.” 👀 #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/5hX3Xo9JDL
— Kevin Gray Jr. (@KevinGraySports) January 23, 2025
Speaking on the DLLS Cowboys Podcast, Prescott praised Schottenheimer’s leadership qualities, saying, “He’ll be ready for the next step. He has the right personality and brain.”
Mike Lombardi, general manager of the North Carolina Tar Heels football program, also weighed in on Schottenheimer’s potential. Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, Lombardi highlighted Schottenheimer’s background and coaching ability.
“I think Brian Schottenheimer is a really good football coach..
I’m sure he’s ready to be a Head Coach and I think he would be a great hire for the Dallas Cowboys” @mlombardiuncgm #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/fOyI767c4Y
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) January 23, 2025
“I think Brian’s a really good coach. He comes from a great tradition of coaches. His father, Marty, is one of nine human beings who has won 200 games in the NFL,” Lombardi said. He also emphasized that Brian could carry on his father’s legacy, calling Marty’s absence from the Hall of Fame a “complete injustice.”
Lombardi’s endorsement adds more weight to Jerry Jones’s decision. His support, coupled with Prescott’s confidence in Schottenheimer’s leadership, paints the hire as a move that is made not only to keep tradition and hold control but also for the long-term benefit of the team.
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