Sun Jan 26 21:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Cowboys’ Schottenheimer Hiring Sparks Outrage Among Former Players
**East Rutherford, NJ** – The Dallas Cowboys’ decision to promote offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer to head coach is facing significant backlash from former players, who question the team’s commitment to winning. While ESPN analysts praised the move, former NFL quarterback Alex Smith called the hiring process “bizarre” and questioned the Cowboys’ strategy.
Smith criticized the team’s interview pool, which included Schottenheimer, Kellen Moore, Robert Saleh, and Leslie Frazier, arguing that they overlooked more promising candidates. He pointed to the Cowboys’ dismal playoff record – their last NFC Championship appearance was in 1995 – as evidence of a flawed approach. Smith questioned whether Schottenheimer, despite his experience, represents an upgrade over Mike McCarthy.
Adding to the criticism, former Dallas Cowboys star Michael Irvin expressed concern that promoting from within could hinder necessary changes in team discipline and culture. Irvin openly advocated for Deion Sanders as head coach and remains steadfast in his belief that the Cowboys missed a significant opportunity.
The controversy underscores a growing skepticism surrounding the Cowboys’ leadership and their pursuit of a Super Bowl victory. The team’s internal promotion, coupled with the perceived lack of external exploration for top coaching talent, has ignited a debate about the franchise’s long-term vision.
First Piper 