By Blessing 
How the Dallas Cowboys Can Set Dak Prescott and Brian Schottenheimer Up for Success
The Dallas Cowboys recently made a significant decision by promoting offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer to head coach. While some speculated about big-name candidates like Deion Sanders, the team seemed determined to keep things in-house. In the end, Schottenheimer’s familiarity with the organization and strong relationship with quarterback Dak Prescott sealed the deal.
At the introductory press conference, the Cowboys emphasized continuity, particularly Schottenheimer’s connection with Prescott. This relationship appears central to the hire, as Prescott is coming off a season-ending hamstring injury and needs stability as he aims to regain his All-Pro form.
However, if Dallas wants this partnership to succeed, they must support Schottenheimer differently than they have previous coaches. Without meaningful changes, the decision could backfire. Here’s what needs to happen for Schottenheimer and Prescott to thrive.
1. Revamp the Approach to Free Agency
For years, Dallas has been reluctant to spend big in free agency, despite it being a crucial tool for building a championship-caliber team. The last significant contract they handed out was to cornerback Brandon Carr back in 2012.
During the press conference, Stephen Jones acknowledged the Philadelphia Eagles’ aggressive free-agent approach, which led to a Super Bowl appearance. However, he quickly referenced the Kansas City Chiefs, praising their draft-centric strategy as if to justify Dallas’ conservative approach. That mindset has to change. Schottenheimer needs more than “bargain-bin” players to succeed. The Cowboys must be willing to invest in top-tier talent to fill key roster gaps.
2. Give Schottenheimer Full Control of the Offense
If Schottenheimer is going to put his stamp on the Cowboys, he needs the freedom to implement his system without front-office interference. He has already expressed a desire to incorporate more pre-snap motion, a strategy the team started using early last season but inexplicably abandoned as the year progressed.
Data from last season revealed that Dallas ranked 7th in motion usage during the first quarter but dropped to 18th, 15th, and 14th in subsequent quarters. Allowing Schottenheimer to fully embrace this approach could lead to a more dynamic offense.
Moreover, the Cowboys must be patient as Schottenheimer adjusts to his dual role as head coach and play-caller. Mistakes are inevitable, but pulling the plug on his play-calling duties early would be counterproductive. Jason Garrett faced similar challenges when he first became head coach, and the Cowboys need to allow Schottenheimer the same opportunity to grow.
3. Invest in the Running Game
Dallas needs to upgrade the running back position despite Rico Dowdle’s impressive 1,000-yard season. Schottenheimer has a track record of leading top-ranked rushing offenses, but he can’t do that without the right talent.
The Ezekiel Elliott experiment failed to deliver the results Dallas had hoped for, and it’s time to move on. Free agents like J.K. Dobbins and Javonte Williams are worth considering, as are draft prospects like Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty. A strong rushing attack would take pressure off Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb while giving Schottenheimer more flexibility as a play-caller.
4. Let Schottenheimer Build His Own Coaching Staff
A head coach should have the autonomy to surround himself with a staff he trusts. Schottenheimer, with nearly three decades of coaching experience, knows what a competent staff looks like.
However, rumors suggest that the front office might try to force certain hires, such as former Cowboys tight end Jason Witten. If true, that would undermine Schottenheimer’s ability to shape the team according to his vision. The Cowboys need to trust his judgment and allow him to build a staff that aligns with his philosophy.
Final Thoughts
The Cowboys have placed a lot of faith in Brian Schottenheimer and his ability to get the best out of Dak Prescott. While there are promising signs, success won’t come without meaningful support from the front office.
By investing in free agency, giving Schottenheimer full control of the offense, upgrading the running back position, and letting him build his own coaching staff, Dallas can set the stage for a successful era. Anything less, and this decision might become yet another missed opportunity for the Cowboys.