Many questions surround Brian Schottenheimer, who is entering the NFL’s most high-profile coaching job with the Dallas Cowboys. At his introductory press conference on Jan. 27, the former offensive coordinator discussed his track record and ability to deliver.
Brian Schottenheimer Cites His 19 Years of Experience at Introductory Cowboys Press Conference
Owner Jerry Jones nodded to Schottenheimer’s ability to build relationships with his players while explaining his hiring decision. Jones also noted that hiring a first-time head coach was “as big a risk as he could take,” but he also heralded Schottenheimer’s extended time working around the NFL in various roles.
When his turn came, the 51-year-old doubled down on the same aspects of his NFL coaching credentials. Schottenheimer credited several experiences he’s gained as a coordinator and former Seattle Seahawks and incoming Las Vegas Raiders head coach Pete Carroll.
“There were things that made me pause the last 19 years. I’ve spent time learning, listening, doing. I’ve always been someone that moves around and learn from different coaches.”
Brian Schottenheimer on why he’s ready to be a Head Coach now: “There were things that made me pause the last 19 years. I’ve spent time learning, listening, doing. I’ve always been someone that moves around and learn from different coaches. Going to Seattle was pivitol— Pete…
— Nicole Hutchison (@nhutchisontv) January 27, 2025
“Going to Seattle was pivotal — Pete Carroll challenged me to be authentic, dive into the relationships that matter, challenged me offensively, (got me into) learning new schemes (McVay and Shanahan), and it sharpened my edge and my view on what I want this opportunity to look like.”
Schottenheimer has had four seasons as a team’s offensive coordinator since PFN’s Offense+ metric began in 2019. Here’s how those teams fared and where they ranked:
- 2024 Cowboys: 68.2 (D+), 23rd
- 2023 Cowboys: 83.7 (B), 4th
- 2020 Seahawks: 82.6 (B-), 12th
- 2019 Seahawks: 78.0 (C+), 12th
Schottenheimer has been the offensive coordinator for four franchises over the course of 12 seasons: the Cowboys (2023-24), Seahawks (2018-20), Los Angeles Rams (2012-14), and New York Jets (2006-11). In that span, he coached under Mike McCarthy, Pete Carroll, Jeff Fisher, Rex Ryan, and Eric Mangini.
Schottenheimer worked closely with Russell Wilson during the 2019 season, which many consider the Super Bowl 49 champion’s high point in the NFL. Before a drop-off in 2024 due to Dak Prescott’s injury, Schottenheimer had coordinated top-10 offenses in four straight seasons.
It will be interesting to see which coordinators he hires to help him with the monumental task of making Dallas relevant again in January and February. Much of his job security with the Cowboys hinges on his ability to capitalize on their current win-now window.