The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic franchises in the history of the NFL, have had a storied coaching history. The men who have held the title of head coach for the Cowboys have played pivotal roles in shaping not only the teamâs success but also the culture surrounding one of the most beloved teams in American sports. Among the many leaders who have guided the team, a few names stand out as instrumental in the teamâs dominance, legacy, and transformation. These men have not only been respected for their prowess on the sidelines but also for their personal stories and family lives that shaped their leadership style.
The position of head coach for the Dallas Cowboys is not just a job; it is a responsibility that comes with immense pressure, especially when considering the franchiseâs history and high expectations. While the Cowboys have been home to many prominent figures, their coaching history stands out for its blend of tradition, talent, and family influence. Each head coach who has come through Dallas has left a unique mark on the team, and these stories are as varied as the men who filled the position.
Tom Landry: The Architect of the Cowboys Dynasty
Tom Landry, the first and arguably most iconic head coach in Dallas Cowboys history, is often credited with laying the foundation for the teamâs success. Landry served as head coach from 1960 until 1988, making him the longest-serving head coach in franchise history. His legacy is not just about the number of games won but also about his role in developing the Cowboys into one of the NFL’s premier teams and pioneering strategies that would forever alter the way the game was played.
Landry was known for his innovative thinking and discipline. His influence on the gameâs defensive strategies, particularly his development of the “4-3 defense,” revolutionized the way teams approached the game. His defensive schemes were key to the teamâs success in the 1970s, a decade that saw the Cowboys dominate the NFL. Under Landry, the Cowboys won two Super Bowls (VI and XII) and were perennial contenders in the postseason, consistently making deep runs in the playoffs.
Beyond his on-field success, Landry was a man of deep faith, which had a significant impact on his leadership style. He was known for his calm demeanor, even in the most stressful situations. Landryâs personal values, such as integrity, hard work, and responsibility, helped shape the culture of the Cowboys and were a reflection of his strong Christian faith. He was a man who believed that character and discipline were just as important as athleticism and strategy.
Landryâs family life was also important to him. He was married to his wife, Alicia, for over 50 years, and together they had two sons. Despite his demanding career, Landry always made time for his family. His family-oriented approach to life was reflected in his treatment of his players, many of whom considered him a father figure. Landryâs ability to balance family and career while maintaining his commitment to excellence made him a respected figure in the NFL and in the Cowboys organization.
Jimmy Johnson: The Maverick Leader
Following Landry’s departure, the Cowboys were in need of a coach who could revitalize the team and bring them back to prominence. That coach would be Jimmy Johnson, who took over as head coach in 1989. Johnsonâs arrival in Dallas marked the beginning of a new era for the Cowboys, one defined by high energy, a hard-nosed approach, and a commitment to building a team that could dominate both on offense and defense.
Jimmy Johnson, who had previously gained national recognition as the head coach at the University of Miami, was known for his aggressive and bold personality. He wasnât afraid to make tough decisions, which was evident in his management of the team. One of his most famous moves was his trade of star running back Herschel Walker, which ultimately brought the Cowboys a treasure trove of draft picks. This trade is often regarded as one of the most successful in NFL history, as it helped the Cowboys build the foundation of their Super Bowl-winning teams in the 1990s.
Under Johnson, the Cowboys won two Super Bowls (XXVII and XXVIII) in just three seasons, a feat that further cemented his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in NFL history. His influence on the Cowboys was not only tactical but also cultural. Johnson instilled a sense of confidence and belief in his players that turned the Cowboys into a dominant force. His success was due to his ability to motivate his players, make tough decisions, and trust in his team-building philosophy.
Off the field, Johnson was known to have a strong family connection. He was married to his wife, Rhonda, and they raised two children. Johnsonâs family life was often a source of stability for him, and he was known to prioritize spending time with his loved ones when away from the football field. His balance of career and family, combined with his high level of competitiveness, made him a beloved figure within the Cowboys organization and among fans.
Barry Switzer: The Super Bowl Winner
Following Jimmy Johnsonâs departure in 1994, Barry Switzer took over as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys. Switzer, who had previously enjoyed tremendous success as the head coach at the University of Oklahoma, stepped into one of the most high-pressure jobs in professional sports. Switzer inherited a team loaded with talent, including future Hall of Famers like Emmitt Smith, Troy Aikman, and Michael Irvin. While Johnson had laid the groundwork for success, Switzerâs challenge was to continue the Cowboysâ dominance.
Switzerâs tenure was highlighted by his ability to manage the egos and personalities of the star players on the roster. Known for his laid-back coaching style, Switzer was able to connect with his players in a way that allowed them to trust him and continue to perform at a high level. Under Switzerâs leadership, the Cowboys won Super Bowl XXX in 1996, marking the teamâs third championship in just four seasons.
Switzerâs approach to coaching was shaped by his personal values, which were heavily influenced by his upbringing and time spent in college football. He was a coach who valued loyalty, discipline, and a focus on family. Switzerâs family life was important to him, and he often spoke about the support of his wife, Becky, and their children. His ability to maintain a close-knit family dynamic while coaching a high-profile team was something he took pride in, and it was reflected in the way he led his players.
Bill Parcells: The Resurrector
After a period of inconsistent performance in the early 2000s, the Cowboys brought in Bill Parcells to head the team in 2003. Parcells, who had previously enjoyed success as the head coach of the New York Giants, New England Patriots, and New York Jets, was known for his tough-love approach and his ability to turn struggling teams around. The Cowboys, under Parcellsâ leadership, saw a resurgence as they became more competitive in the NFC East.
Parcells was a no-nonsense coach who demanded accountability and discipline from his players. He was known for his direct communication style and his willingness to challenge his players to be their best. Under Parcells, the Cowboys made the playoffs twice, and while they didnât win a Super Bowl, Parcells helped to rebuild the foundation of the team, setting the stage for future success.
Despite his stern coaching persona, Parcells had a deep commitment to his family. He was married to his wife, Jeanette, for many years, and they had children together. Parcells often spoke about how important his family was to him, especially in balancing the stress of coaching at the highest level. His ability to maintain close family ties while coaching in the NFL provided a level of stability in his life that contributed to his effectiveness as a coach.
Jason Garrett: The Bridge Between Eras
Jason Garrett, a former Cowboys quarterback, took over as head coach of the team in 2010 after serving as the teamâs offensive coordinator. Garrettâs tenure as head coach was marked by a steady, if not spectacular, performance. His teams were often competitive, but they were unable to secure a Super Bowl win, which many fans hoped for. Garrett was known for his calm demeanor and his emphasis on a disciplined, team-first approach.
Garrettâs personal life and family were important to him throughout his coaching career. He was married to his wife, Brill, and together they raised three children. Garrettâs strong moral compass and values were instilled in his coaching style, which focused on integrity, teamwork, and accountability. While Garrett was unable to bring the Cowboys back to the pinnacle of NFL success, he remains a respected figure in the organization for his leadership and commitment.
Mike McCarthy: The Latest Leader
In 2020, Mike McCarthy became the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, following a brief but successful tenure with the Green Bay Packers, where he won a Super Bowl and developed some of the leagueâs top players. McCarthy was hired to bring a fresh perspective to the Cowboys, and his leadership style has been rooted in creating a disciplined yet flexible system that allows his players to excel. His family life, like many of his predecessors, plays an important role in his coaching approach. McCarthyâs relationships with his wife, Jessica, and their children serve as a foundation for his personal and professional life.
Under McCarthy, the Cowboys are striving to return to their former glory, and his experience in managing successful teams gives hope for the future.
Conclusion
The career and family lives of the Dallas Cowboys head coaches reveal a complex mix of high-level football strategy and deeply personal values. Each coach who has taken the helm of the Cowboys has had a significant impact on the franchiseâs success, and their personal lives have played an essential role in shaping their leadership styles. Through both triumphs and challenges, the head coaches of the Cowboys have contributed to making the franchise a symbol of excellence in the NFL, and their legacies will continue to resonate for years to come.