In a surprising move that raised plenty of eyebrows across the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys chose Brian Schottenheimer as their next head coach following the departure of Mike McCarthy.
While many anticipated that McCarthy’s successor would have deep ties to the Cowboys’ organization, the decision to promote Schottenheimer – who was already on staff – was an unexpected twist.
Schottenheimer’s lack of head coaching experience has raised concerns among fans, with some questioning whether he is the right fit for the job.
However, the staff he has assembled has helped ease some of those initial doubts. And at least one Cowboys legend has faith in his ability to succeed.
Hall of Famer and Dallas legend Troy Aikman, now the lead analyst for ESPN’s Monday Night Football, weighed in on the hiring and acknowledged the challenges ahead.
“I hear it’s one of those jobs that, until you get in that seat and really understand everything that goes into it, you’re not quite prepared, but he’s been coaching a long time,” Aikman said.
“He’s as prepared as anyone who’s not yet been a head coach can be. I’m hopeful that he does a great job.”
Schottenheimer takes over at a time when several high-profile coaching hires have been made across the league, increasing the scrutiny on the Cowboys’ decision.
As Aikman noted, however, all that matters is what happens once the season begins.
“When the season rolls around Week 1 – whether it’s Ben Johnson, Kellen Moore or Brian Schottenheimer – everybody’s being judged on a level playing field, and it’s all about winning,” Aikman said.
Schottenheimer, in particular, will face comparisons to Johnson and Moore, especially given the expectations in Dallas. But the simplest way to silence critics is to win.
The Cowboys have made it clear they are in “win-now” mode, meaning the front office will need to bolster the roster through free agency and the draft to give Schottenheimer the best chance to succeed.
With key players like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons still forming the team’s core, the expectation is that Dallas will remain competitive.
But the road to reclaiming dominance in the NFC won’t be easy. Holes exist on the roster, and others will emerge as free agency shakes up the team’s depth chart.
How well the Cowboys navigate this transition will play a major role in determining whether Schottenheimer’s first season at the helm is a success – or just another missed opportunity.
What are your thoughts on Aikman’s comments? … More importantly, what do YOU think of the Schottenheimer hire???
Like Aikman said, it may not be a “sexy” hire, but all that matters is winning … Is there a chance he’s actually the right man for the job???
