“GOODBYE” – Sad News: Dallas Cowboys Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer Officially Announces Departure Following NFL Proposal as Head Coach of New Expansion Team
In a surprising and emotional turn of events, Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer has officially announced his departure from the team after accepting a groundbreaking offer to become the head coach of the NFL’s upcoming expansion franchise based in San Antonio. The announcement was made public early Saturday morning through a joint statement from the Cowboys organization and the NFL.
Schottenheimer, who had only recently stepped into the role as head coach following the team’s parting with longtime leader Mike McCarthy, has chosen to leave Dallas to help lead a historic new chapter in the league’s expansion efforts. The NFL confirmed plans earlier this year to introduce its 33rd franchise in San Antonio, Texas, with play expected to begin in the 2026 season.
A Brief But Impactful Tenure in Dallas
Brian Schottenheimer was promoted to the head coaching role for the Cowboys after serving as the team’s offensive coordinator during the 2023 season. Known for his strategic mind and deep football roots, Schottenheimer helped lead a high-powered Cowboys offense that featured quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, and running back Tony Pollard.
While his head coaching stint was short-lived, his presence brought a much-needed sense of stability and professionalism to the Cowboys locker room, especially following a season filled with postseason disappointment. Under his leadership, Dallas remained competitive and committed to winning, despite intense media scrutiny and organizational pressure.
In his farewell address, Schottenheimer expressed his gratitude to the Cowboys franchise:
“It’s been an incredible honor to serve as the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, one of the most storied franchises in all of sports. While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, the opportunity to lead a brand-new NFL team from the ground up is a once-in-a-lifetime challenge I could not pass up.”
NFL Expansion Reaches San Antonio
The NFL’s expansion into San Antonio marks a major milestone for the league, as it seeks to tap into the rapidly growing Texas market beyond Dallas and Houston. The new franchise — whose official name and branding have yet to be unveiled — will become the third NFL team in the Lone Star State and the first major professional football team based in San Antonio.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised Schottenheimer’s appointment as the first head coach of the new franchise, stating:
“Brian is a natural leader and an exceptional football mind. His ability to build strong team culture and get the best out of his players makes him the perfect choice to lead our newest franchise in San Antonio. We’re excited about what he brings to this historic opportunity.”
The San Antonio team is expected to begin play in 2026, with preparations already underway for stadium development, staff hiring, and player acquisition processes.
Cowboys Face Another Coaching Crossroads
Schottenheimer’s departure now puts the Cowboys at another critical juncture. With owner Jerry Jones still aiming for a Super Bowl run during Prescott’s prime years, the team must act quickly to identify and hire a new head coach who can continue the team’s progress while managing high expectations.
In a brief statement, Jones acknowledged Schottenheimer’s departure and wished him well:
“Brian has been a tremendous asset to this organization. While we’re disappointed to lose him, we’re proud to see him take on this historic opportunity. We’ll begin our search for the next leader of the Dallas Cowboys immediately.”
Speculation has already begun about potential candidates for the Cowboys’ top job, with names like Dan Quinn, Kellen Moore, and even former NFL head coaches like Jim Harbaugh and Bill Belichick being mentioned as possibilities.
Fans React with Mixed Emotions
Cowboys fans were caught off guard by the announcement, with many taking to social media to express both appreciation for Schottenheimer’s leadership and concern over yet another coaching transition.
“Just when things were starting to look up, we’re back to square one,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Wishing Coach Schotty the best, but man, this team needs some stability.”
Despite the abrupt change, the organization remains optimistic about its future and committed to building on the foundation Schottenheimer helped reinforce during his time at the helm.
A Bold New Chapter for Schottenheimer
For Brian Schottenheimer, the move to San Antonio represents not just a professional leap, but a legacy-building opportunity. As the face of a brand-new NFL franchise, he’ll have the rare chance to shape a team’s identity, build its culture from scratch, and make history in a football-hungry city eager to embrace its first NFL squad.
“I’m ready for the challenge,” he said. “And I’ll always carry my time in Dallas with pride. Thank you to the Cowboys, and thank you to the fans.”
As Dallas begins another coaching search and San Antonio builds something brand new, one thing is certain: Brian Schottenheimer’s next chapter will be one to watch.
