Cowboys Coaching Shakeup: Schottenheimer, Ryan Rumored for Key Roles

DALLAS, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys are navigating a turbulent offseason after a disappointing 2024 campaign that saw them miss the playoffs despite high expectations. The team parted ways with head coach Mike McCarthy, leaving a vacancy that has sparked widespread speculation about their next moves.

Current offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer has emerged as a leading candidate for the head coaching position. If Schottenheimer secures the role, rumors suggest former New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan could join the Cowboys as defensive coordinator. The duo previously worked together during their tenure with the Jets, where they led the team to back-to-back AFC Championship games in 2009 and 2010.

“Last year, the Cowboys were looking to hire a new defensive coordinator,” said Pro Football Talk‘s Mike Florio. “As Rex Ryan tells it, it would have been him, if they’d been offering more money. This time around, as they reportedly are poised to hire Brian Schottenheimer as Mike McCarthy’s successor, Rex could be in play again.”

The potential reunion has drawn mixed reactions from fans. While some see Ryan’s defensive expertise as a valuable addition, others remain skeptical about Schottenheimer’s ability to lead the team to success. The Cowboys’ 2024 season was marred by inconsistent performances and key injuries, leaving many questioning the team’s direction.

Schottenheimer’s potential promotion is not yet finalized, and the coaching landscape remains fluid. Recent examples, such as the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, highlight how quickly situations can change before contracts are signed. If Schottenheimer and Ryan do reunite in Dallas, it would undoubtedly generate significant attention and scrutiny.

As the Cowboys continue their search, the organization faces mounting pressure to make the right decisions to restore confidence among players and fans alike. The coming weeks will be critical in shaping the team’s future and determining whether this potential coaching duo can reignite the Cowboys’ championship aspirations.