The Dallas Cowboys stunned fans and analysts by naming Brian Schottenheimer as their new head coach, following the departure of Mike McCarthy. Given that this is Schottenheimer’s first-ever head coaching role, many have questioned the decision made by Jerry Jones and the team’s front office.
One key justification for the hire: Schottenheimer is a familiar face. He’s been steadily climbing the Cowboys’ coaching ranks since 2022, most recently serving as offensive coordinator. So while he’s new to the top job, he’s no stranger to The Star.
Even so, and despite not having coached a single regular-season game, some analysts believe Schottenheimer is already in trouble. The circumstances surrounding his hiring-and unusual clauses in his contract-have him racing against the clock.
Is Schottenheimer already on the hot seat?
According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, Schottenheimer’s job is in jeopardy before he’s even called his first play. Florio noted that head coaches typically receive three years of guaranteed salary in their contracts, but “there’s nothing usual about the hiring of Brian Schottenheimer.”
In his analysis, Florio explained that no other team pursued Schottenheimer during the last hiring cycle. For the Cowboys-who wanted offensive continuity for quarterback Dak Prescott-it reportedly came down to Schottenheimer or Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.
Ultimately, it was a financial decision. “Schottenheimer came cheaper,” Florio wrote. “How cheap? So cheap that there would be no buyout if he’s fired after one year? If so, Schottenheimer might need to prove enough in 2025 to earn his job in 2026.”
Jerry Jones holds all the cards
In contrast, Matthew Schmidt of Sports Illustrated doesn’t believe Schottenheimer’s job is in immediate danger. While Jones has the authority to make bold moves, Schmidt pointed out that the Cowboys owner tends to show patience with head coaches-even if it’s not always for the right reasons.
“Based on how Jones has handled coaches in recent seasons, parting ways with Schottenheimer following his inaugural campaign seems incredibly unlikely, regardless of how Dallas plays,” Schmidt stated.
Which analyst will be proven right? Only time-and possibly Jones’ gut-will tell.
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