Brian Schottenheimer Isn’t on the Hot Seat - Yet - But 2026 Is a Big Year in Dallas
Let’s get one thing straight: Brian Schottenheimer’s seat isn’t hot - not yet. Sure, the Cowboys' 6-9-1 finish in his first season as head coach wasn’t what fans hoped for, but pinning that record solely on Schottenheimer ignores the broader picture. If anything, the offensive side of the ball showed real promise, and the issues that dragged Dallas down were rooted elsewhere - namely, a defense that couldn’t stop a nosebleed.
Let’s talk about that defense. The Cowboys gave up a franchise-record 511 points.
That’s not just bad - that’s historically bad. But that wasn’t Schottenheimer’s defense.
That was Matt Eberflus’ unit, a hire made by Jerry Jones before Schottenheimer even took the reins. Now, with Eberflus out and Christian Parker in as defensive coordinator - a hire Schottenheimer had full control over - there’s a sense that the Cowboys are finally aligned from top to bottom.
That alignment matters, especially heading into a crucial second year.
Still, not everyone’s convinced. Fox Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano recently slotted Schottenheimer at No. 10 on his list of head coaches on the hot seat heading into 2026.
His reasoning? If Dallas misses the playoffs again, Jerry Jones - who turns 83 later this year - might not be patient.
Vacchiano even floated the idea that a ready-to-win Cowboys roster could be enough to lure Mike Tomlin back to the sidelines in 2027.
That’s a bold projection, but here’s the thing: projecting that Schottenheimer could be on the hot seat if things go south is very different from saying he’s there now. And based on what we saw in Year 1, Schottenheimer deserves more credit than criticism.
Let’s look at the offense. Dak Prescott had arguably the best season of his career under Schottenheimer’s play-calling.
The Cowboys averaged 391.9 yards per game - second-most in the NFL. That kind of production doesn’t happen by accident.
The offense was creative, aggressive, and effective. Yes, there were moments where situational play-calling could’ve been sharper, but it was Schottenheimer’s first year working with this group.
Growing pains were expected.
What’s encouraging is that the offensive identity is clearly forming. Schottenheimer’s scheme brought out the best in Prescott, and if the defense can even be average under Parker, Dallas could be back in the playoff mix quickly.
That’s why calling Schottenheimer’s job status into question feels premature. He’s building something - and now, with more control and a fresh start on defense, we’ll get to see what that vision really looks like.
Meanwhile, there are coaches who truly are on the hot seat. Dan Quinn, now in Washington, landed at No. 8 on the same list.
His rookie quarterback, Jayden Daniels, dealt with multiple injuries, and the Commanders had holes all over the roster. But even with those caveats, expectations are higher in Year 2.
Quinn has to show progress - fast - or his seat will only get hotter.
And then there’s Nick Sirianni. The Eagles’ head coach checked in at No. 2, and that tracks.
After flameouts in both 2023 and 2025, the pressure is mounting in Philadelphia. Another disappointing season, and owner Jeffrey Lurie might decide it’s time for a new voice in the locker room.
In contrast, Schottenheimer’s inclusion on that list feels more like a “watch this space” situation. If Dallas underachieves again in 2026, then yes - the conversation changes.
But right now? He’s not on the hot seat.
He’s in the spotlight, sure, but that’s a very different thing.
This is a prove-it year, no doubt. The pieces are in place.
The offense is humming. The defense has a new leader.
And Schottenheimer finally has his fingerprints on the full roster. Now it’s about results.
But let’s not confuse pressure with panic. The Cowboys are betting on continuity and growth - and Schottenheimer has earned the chance to see that vision through.