Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer during training camp at the River Ridge Fields. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Brian Schottenheimer continues Cowboys culture shift with strong bonding moment

Originally posted on Dallas Cowboys on SI | By Tyler Reed | Last updated Jul 25, 2025 1:23 PM ET

The Dallas Cowboys are nearing the end of their first week of training camp, and it is already noticeable how much first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer has changed the culture.

There's a new buzz around the team at practice, dare I say it is optimism. Now, that is not a dig at former head coach Mike McCarthy.

Last season, the pressure surrounding the team was bound to explode in everyone's faces.

This summer, however, it feels different.

Schottenheimer will have a different approach than McCarthy, because if not, then the Cowboys will be going through the coaching carousel again.

But it's clear that the times are changing around this franchise.

Thursday’s practice ended with positions groups in prayer circles. Cowboys linebacker Buddy Johnson told me this is a new thing encouraged by Brian Schottenheimer and his staff—just another example of how the culture is changing in Dallas. pic.twitter.com/5ImDDjJyyO
— Mary Rominger (@KSATMaryRom) July 25, 2025

Mary Rominger of KSAT 12 News shared that Cowboys linebacker coach Buddy Johnson revealed that Schottenheimer has encouraged position groups to end the practice day with a prayer circle.

Unity felt like a missing piece of the puzzle this past season. Before the season even began, many wondered if it would be McCarthy's final year, even if the Cowboys had a strong finish.

Now, Schottenheimer is bringing his faith to the franchise, which he mentioned is a big deal to him when discussing his tattoos.

It will be really deflating if things don't go well for Schottenheimer in Dallas.

This article first appeared on Dallas Cowboys on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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