Sun Jan 26 19:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Cowboys Name Brian Schottenheimer Head Coach in Surprise Move

**FRISCO, TX** – In a surprising move, the Dallas Cowboys announced Friday night that they have hired offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer as their 10th head coach. The decision marks a departure from expectations, as the team had initially indicated they would conduct a broader external search following the dismissal of Mike McCarthy.

Schottenheimer, 51, impressed owner Jerry Jones and the team’s leadership during his interview process this week. While this will be his first head coaching position, Schottenheimer boasts an extensive background as an offensive coordinator for several NFL teams, including the St. Louis Rams, New York Jets, Seattle Seahawks, and most recently, the Cowboys. He’s known for his strong relationship with Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and has reportedly been instrumental in the team’s offensive success. He and the Cowboys have agreed to a four-year contract.

Despite a dip in offensive performance this past season, largely attributed to injuries, Schottenheimer’s previous success, including four top-10 finishes in points per game as a play-caller, played a significant role in the decision. The Cowboys’ high-powered offense in 2023, which led the league in scoring, is largely credited to his contributions.

The team’s search included interviews with several high-profile candidates, including Seattle Seahawks assistant head coach Leslie Frazier, former New York Jets coach Robert Saleh, and former Cowboys offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. However, Schottenheimer’s familiarity with the team and players ultimately secured him the position.

Former Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus, a former Cowboys assistant, is reportedly a leading candidate for the defensive coordinator position under Schottenheimer.

Jerry Jones expressed immense excitement over the appointment, proclaiming Schottenheimer’s transformation from “Brian” to “head coach of the Dallas Cowboys.” The hiring follows a pattern established only once before under Jones’ ownership, when Dave Campo was appointed head coach without prior head coaching experience.

Schottenheimer inherits a team with high expectations, tasked with ending the franchise’s 29-year Super Bowl drought. His legacy will hinge on his ability to build a strong coaching staff and lead the Cowboys to sustained success.

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