The Dallas Cowboys’ head coaching search, if you could call it that, seems to be focusing on an internal candidate — Brian Schottenheimer. The buzz in Frisco is pointing towards Schottenheimer as the likely successor to Mike McCarthy, with Stephen Jones reportedly steering this coaching search ship.
Despite rumors of Jerry Jones being the mastermind behind the “search,” it’s Stephen who seems to have the pedal to the metal in backing Schottenheimer for the role. Even amid whispers of interest in Colorado coach Deion Sanders, Stephen’s preference for Schottenheimer appears to have taken center stage.
Schottenheimer, aged 52 and with a track record as an offensive coordinator, is yet to fill the head coaching shoes. But the Cowboys’ interest is palpable, as he’s the only candidate who has secured a coveted second interview – a testament to his standing in the Jones’ decision-making hierarchy. In contrast, Sanders, famed for his charisma and soundbites, hasn’t even cleared the first interview hurdle. The notion that Jerry is flying solo on this simply doesn’t hold water.
Schottenheimer’s coaching pedigree, with successful stints with the Seattle Seahawks and a strong bond with McCarthy — thanks to his late father, Marty Schottenheimer, who also mentored McCarthy — positions him as a formidable candidate. This comes against the backdrop of what feels like a frenzied coaching search. The Joneses appear to have been caught off guard by the eventual departure of McCarthy, who spent five years at the helm without sealing a contract extension.
If Schottenheimer lands the top job, as suggested by earlier reports, the Cowboys would be seen as prioritizing continuity for Dak Prescott and an offense that showed sparks of brilliance in 2023, especially with Prescott healthy and McCarthy calling the shots. Schottenheimer’s influence in overseeing the offense was undeniable.
Still, hiring Schottenheimer may not catalyze significant change within The Star. While Stephen Jones favors him considerably over other candidates like Sanders, it’s uncertain if this choice will resonate with the Cowboys fans, many of whom might be craving a transformative hire.
Ultimately, regardless of how the coaching choice unfolds, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this move isn’t about Jerry Jones flying solo. It’s more about Stephen Jones taking the controls for a pivotal decision, possibly hinting at a future where he charts the Cowboys’ course.
