Cowboys Schotty Drops Subtle Dig on Previous Coaching Changes

Brian Schottenheimer is entering his first-ever season as a head coach, but has built a strong reputation in his more than two decades of experience in the NFL.

He is gearing up to lead the Dallas Cowboys into the 2025 season, and despite how new this position may be, he isn't changing his approach to team management.

In his first solo press conference last week - which had a rare wrinkle fans did not expect - "Schotty" was asked if he's considered changing anything since entering this position. 

His response was rather blunt.

"No, (I won't change), I think I’ve always been someone who believes in connection—getting to know these guys," Schottenheimer said. "I’ve always been able to be demanding, and I’m pretty good at disciplining guys.

"Not really, man. I promised myself, when I got this opportunity, that I wouldn’t change."

Schottenheimer, who has been with the Cowboys as an offensive analyst and coordinator since 2022, has claimed to recognize when change has impacted a head coach's success. ...

And he's quite frank about it.

"I’ve seen too many people change, and the ones I’ve seen do that - I'm not going to name them - they weren’t very successful," he said.

A subtle dig here? We doubt he's talking about a Cowboys' head coach, as he joined the organization when his predecessor (and mentor) Mike McCarthy was already entering his third year in Dallas.

He isn't necessarily talking about any other old boss, either; he's a football lifer who's father Marty was a legendary NFL boss and therefore Brian, at 51, has known generations and generations of coaches.

So, what about the now?

With his team coming off a lowly 7-10 season in 2024 and adjusting to a new coaching staff, Schottenheimer holds onto the belief that his authenticity will be what leads to wins.

"I plan on being really successful, and the reason I believe I will be is because of my values, my beliefs, how hard I work, and the fact that I’m going to be me," he said.

"I'm not going to change that for anybody."