Dallas Cowboys Also Decide On Next Offensive Coordinator

The Dallas Cowboys have recently undergone significant changes in their coaching staff, particularly concerning the offensive coordinator position. Following a season that fell short of expectations, the organization has made strategic decisions aimed at revitalizing their offensive strategy and overall team performance.

Departure of Kellen Moore

Kellen Moore, who served as the Cowboys’ offensive coordinator for four seasons, will not be returning to the role. This decision was described as mutual between Moore and the organization. During his tenure, Moore led an offense that consistently ranked among the top in the NFL. In 2021

, the Cowboys boasted the league’s highest-scoring offense, and in 2022, they ranked fourth in points per game and eleventh in total yards, despite quarterback Dak Prescott missing five games due to injury. However, inconsistencies, particularly in crucial postseason moments, prompted the team to seek a new direction.

Mike McCarthy’s Role and Potential Play-Calling Duties

Head coach Mike McCarthy, who has a history of calling plays during his tenure with the Green Bay Packers, may assume play-calling responsibilities moving forward. Upon joining the Cowboys in 2020, McCarthy retained Moore as the play-caller to maintain continuity for Dak Prescott. With Moore’s departure, McCarthy is considering taking on a more direct role in the offensive strategy, though no definitive decisions have been announced.

Brian Schottenheimer’s Promotion to Head Coach

In a surprising move, the Cowboys have promoted Brian Schottenheimer to the position of head coach, following the departure of Mike McCarthy. Schottenheimer, who previously served as the team’s offensive coordinator, steps into this role without prior head coaching experience. His extensive background includes roles as an offensive coordinator with various NFL teams and a stint as an analyst for the Cowboys. Schottenheimer emphasized hard work and team unity during his introductory press conference, which was attended by key players, including Dak Prescott.

Assembling the Coaching Staff

As the new head coach, Schottenheimer is actively assembling his coaching staff. The Cowboys have expressed interest in several candidates for key positions. For the offensive coordinator role, they plan to interview Kevin Koger, the Atlanta Falcons’ tight ends coach, and Klayton Adams, the Arizona Cardinals’ offensive line coach. On the defensive side, interviews are scheduled with Andre Curtis, the Chicago Bears’ secondary coach, and Ryan Crow, the Miami Dolphins’ outside linebackers coach, for the defensive coordinator position. Additionally, assistant special teams coaches Chris Banjo and Carlos Polk are set to interview for the special teams coordinator role.

Reactions and Criticisms

The decision to promote Schottenheimer has elicited mixed reactions. Team owner Jerry Jones defended the move, acknowledging the inherent risk but expressing confidence in Schottenheimer’s capabilities. He highlighted Schottenheimer’s extensive experience and his relationship with Dak Prescott as key factors in the decision. Conversely, former Cowboys player Michael Irvin criticized the choice, suggesting that it could alienate a generation of fans and expressing disappointment in the team’s direction.

Looking Ahead

The Cowboys’ recent coaching changes reflect a strategic shift aimed at addressing past inconsistencies and enhancing future performance. With Brian Schottenheimer at the helm and a renewed focus on assembling a cohesive coaching staff, the organization is poised to implement new strategies and approaches. As the offseason progresses, the effectiveness of these changes will become clearer, with the team’s performance in the upcoming season serving as a critical indicator of success.