Brian Schottenheimer Named Dallas Cowboys Head Coach After Surprise Decision

FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys have named Brian Schottenheimer as their new head coach, ending a 12-day search that included interviews with several high-profile candidates. Schottenheimer, the team’s offensive coordinator for the past two seasons, was officially announced Monday at a press conference at The Star, the Cowboys’ headquarters.

Owner Jerry Jones revealed that Schottenheimer’s promotion came after a series of meetings and interviews, during which the 51-year-old coach impressed the front office with his vision for the team. “The more we met, the more we wanted to meet,” said Stephen Jones, the Cowboys’ executive vice president. “I think that was helping us come to a conclusion on what that decision should be.”

Schottenheimer, who has spent 27 years as an NFL assistant, becomes the 10th head coach in Cowboys history. He takes over from Mike McCarthy, whose contract expired after a disappointing 7-10 season. McCarthy and the Cowboys parted ways on Jan. 13 after failing to agree on the length of a new contract.

During the search, the Cowboys interviewed several candidates, including former Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier and current Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. However, Schottenheimer emerged as the top choice, despite having no prior head coaching experience. “I know the players. I know the building. I know our strengths. I know our weaknesses,” Schottenheimer said. “The continuity through change is what we’re looking for.”

Schottenheimer’s appointment has drawn mixed reactions, with some critics questioning whether Jones opted for a coach he could easily control. Hall of Famer Michael Irvin expressed frustration that Deion Sanders, a former Cowboys star and current head coach at Jackson State, was not considered more seriously. However, Jones defended the decision, stating, “This is the best way that we can go to the playoffs and win.”

Schottenheimer, the son of legendary NFL coach Marty Schottenheimer, said the opportunity was a lifelong dream. “My father was a legendary coach. A great man. But he’s an incredible father,” Schottenheimer said, his voice cracking with emotion. “I know he’s looking down on me.”

The new head coach inherits a team with high expectations, as the Cowboys have not won a Super Bowl since 1996. Schottenheimer expressed confidence in the team’s ability to compete immediately. “I believe we’re hanging around the rim,” he said. “I think we’ve got in place a team that can get there right now.”

Schottenheimer signed a four-year deal with the Cowboys, and his first order of business will be assembling his coaching staff and preparing for the 2025 NFL season. Meanwhile, McCarthy, who led the Cowboys to three playoff appearances in five seasons, has decided to take a break from coaching for the upcoming season, according to NFL Network insiders.