Speculations Surround Cowboys Coaching Staff: Rex Ryan Linked with Schottenheimer
FRISCO — Although no official decisions have been announced by the Dallas Cowboys, recent developments suggest that offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer is emerging as the frontrunner for a significant role with the team. Discussions this week indicate that Schottenheimer has been the primary focus, engaging in two meetings with team leadership—more than any other potential candidate.
While nothing is set in stone, the momentum strongly favors Schottenheimer making a return to Dallas, possibly in an elevated capacity. Should he secure a head coaching role, Schottenheimer would need to build a capable and reliable staff to support him. Given his status as a first-time head coach, he is likely to surround himself with trusted colleagues and individuals with whom he has a strong working history.
Among the names being speculated for a key position is Rex Ryan, the former New York Jets head coach and current ESPN NFL analyst. Ryan could potentially fill the defensive coordinator role under Schottenheimer’s leadership. However, this would require Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and the organization to overlook some past comments made by Ryan. Notably, Ryan once claimed he could have turned around Dallas’ defense but that the team was unwilling to meet his financial demands, prompting Jones to hire Mike Zimmer instead. The exact details of any discussions between Ryan and the Cowboys remain unclear, but his previous remarks have added an intriguing layer to the ongoing rumors.
Ryan’s bold personality and candid statements often make headlines, and his connection to the Cowboys has sparked renewed speculation. Some believe he could be the source of the recent rumors linking his name to the team. However, whether or not Ryan is genuinely in consideration for the role remains uncertain.
Schottenheimer and Ryan share a professional history, having worked together during Ryan’s time with the Jets, where Schottenheimer served as the offensive coordinator. This prior collaboration could make Ryan an appealing choice for Schottenheimer, should the latter seek experienced and familiar personnel to revamp the coaching staff. Even so, Ryan’s potential return to the sidelines is far from guaranteed and would represent a significant shift for the Cowboys as they look ahead to next season.
If these rumors hold any truth, Ryan’s addition to the Cowboys’ coaching staff could mark a dramatic change in the team’s defensive strategy and overall approach. For now, however, these possibilities remain speculative as the Cowboys’ leadership continues to evaluate its options.
