Cowboys Hire Brian Schottenheimer as Head Coach Amid Roster Shakeup

DALLAS, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys have named Brian Schottenheimer as their new head coach, signaling a fresh direction for the franchise. The announcement comes as the team faces significant roster changes, particularly at the quarterback position, with both backup quarterbacks set to become free agents this offseason.

Schottenheimer, a seasoned NFL coach with over two decades of experience, replaces Mike McCarthy, who was dismissed after a disappointing playoff exit. The Cowboys are hoping Schottenheimer’s offensive expertise will revitalize a team that has struggled to advance deep into the postseason in recent years.

Among the most pressing decisions for the Cowboys is the future of Trey Lance, the former No. 3 overall pick acquired from the San Francisco 49ers in 2023. Lance, who has yet to prove himself as a reliable option, is unlikely to return to Dallas. “When the Cowboys traded for Trey Lance back in August 2023, the move made little to no sense,” wrote Randy Holleran, a sports analyst. “Today, the same thing rings true, and his time in Dallas has almost certainly come to an end.”

Lance’s rookie contract, worth $34 million over four years, is set to expire, and projections suggest he could earn just $2 million in free agency. While this price point might be reasonable for a backup quarterback, it is considered excessive for a third-string option. “To pay $2 million for a third-string quarterback is not the best idea,” Holleran added.

Compounding the issue is the impending free agency of Cooper Rush, the Cowboys’ long-time backup quarterback. Rush, who has filled in admirably during Dak Prescott‘s absences, is expected to be the preferred choice over Lance. “Unless a team gives Rush a deal to let him compete for a starting spot, there’s virtually zero chance Dallas would choose to bring Lance back over the veteran,” Holleran noted.

Meanwhile, speculation is mounting about Lance’s potential landing spot. CBS Sports‘ Cody Benjamin suggested the Los Angeles Chargers as a possible destination. “Jim Harbaugh has his man in Justin Herbert, but he and offensive coordinator Greg Roman also love to run, which Lance can do,” Benjamin wrote. “The ex-49ers first-rounder could make for an enticing gadget-type prospect.”

Lance’s career has been marred by limited opportunities and injuries since being drafted in 2021. After failing to secure a starting role with the 49ers, he was traded to Dallas, where he saw minimal action. The Cowboys declined his fifth-year option, making him a free agent this offseason.

As the Cowboys prepare for a pivotal offseason, Schottenheimer’s leadership and the team’s roster decisions will be under intense scrutiny. With key players like Prescott and Rush at the forefront, Dallas aims to build a competitive squad capable of contending for a Super Bowl title.