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The Dallas Cowboys have made a significant move by hiring Brian Schottenheimer as their new head coach, though the process leading to his selection contradicts their usual insistence on doing everything possible to win a Super Bowl. Nevertheless, Schottenheimer made a strong first impression in his introductory press conference, and the Cowboys are quietly assembling a quality coaching staff around him.
One of their most notable hires is Matt Eberflus as defensive coordinator, a highly respected defensive strategist who replaces Mike Zimmer. They also brought in Nick Sorensen as the new special teams coordinator. While Sorensen’s hiring didn’t receive the same level of attention as Eberflus’, the fact that the 49ers wanted to retain him speaks volumes about his coaching abilities.
The Cowboys’ coaching staff is coming together quickly. They have already interviewed Klayton Adams, the Cardinals’ offensive line coach, and Kevin Koger, the Falcons’ tight ends coach, for the offensive coordinator position. A decision on that front appears to be imminent, but in the meantime, they have made another move that star linebacker Micah Parsons will surely appreciate.
According to Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic, Dallas was interested in adding Aaron Whitecotton to Schottenheimer’s staff. Rosenblatt also noted that the Jets wanted to keep Whitecotton, indicating how highly regarded he was within the organization.
Whitecotton made a significant impact as the Jets’ defensive line coach. While Quinnen Williams was already a standout player when Whitecotton arrived, the coach played a key role in the development of young pass rushers. He was instrumental in the second-year leaps of Jermaine Johnson, a 2022 first-round pick, and Will McDonald, a 2023 first-rounder.
Johnson improved dramatically in his sophomore season, recording 7.5 sacks, 16 quarterback hits, 56 pressures, and 31 defensive stops in 2023. Meanwhile, McDonald broke out with 10.5 sacks, 24 QB hits, two forced fumbles, and 61 pressures, per Pro Football Focus.
Beyond those two, Whitecotton also helped Bryce Huff emerge as a top-tier pass rusher before the Jets traded him to the Eagles. Additionally, John Franklin-Myers flourished under his guidance before New York sent him to the Broncos.
Overall, hiring Whitecotton is a fantastic move for the Cowboys. His proven ability to develop both interior and edge rushers should benefit Dallas immensely. His presence might also motivate the team to retain defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, who had a career-best season in 2024 as a pass rusher.
