Schottenheimer Embraces Head Coaching Role, Leans on Mentors and New Staff to Revitalize Cowboys

Brian Schottenheimer’s ascension to head coach of the Indianapolis Colts, while a significant milestone, hasn’t dramatically altered his daily routine just yet. The 51-year-old offensive mind is immersed in the intricate work of reshaping the team’s identity, a task that has consumed his attention since his promotion five weeks ago. Despite the official end of the season for "America’s Team" two months prior, and the de facto conclusion coming even earlier, Schottenheimer and his staff have maintained a relentless pace, akin to the intensity of the regular season.

The NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, a traditionally lively affair for networking and socializing, has been strictly business for the new head coach. "I haven’t gotten out much to be honest with you," Schottenheimer admitted, highlighting the demanding workload ahead. "It’s been nonstop, there’s a lot of work to be done. Again, other than a few autograph seekers, it’s been pretty normal." The transition to the top job has been characterized by long hours and an unwavering focus on building a foundation for success. "It feels like we’re in-season a little bit right now in terms of the hours," he added.

The core of Schottenheimer’s immediate efforts lies in revitalizing the offense, which ranked a modest 17th in the previous season. He and newly appointed offensive coordinator Klayton Adams are collaborating closely to redesign the offensive scheme, aiming to unlock its full potential. Simultaneously, former Chicago Bears head coach Matt Eberflus is spearheading a similar overhaul of the defense, tasked with improving a unit that uncharacteristically surrendered the second-most points in the league.

Beyond the tactical adjustments, Schottenheimer is also diligently preparing for the upcoming free agency period, a crucial opportunity to bolster the roster with talent that aligns with his vision. Interspersed between these responsibilities are interviews with prospective players for the upcoming draft, adding another layer of complexity to his already demanding schedule. "I haven’t had a whole lot of time," Schottenheimer confessed. "It’s been a lot of long hours, and I really haven’t had time to say what feels different."

The familiarity of his working environment has provided a degree of comfort during this period of transition. Owner Jerry Jones ensured a seamless relocation by transplanting the entire Indianapolis staff from Frisco, Texas, to the combine, allowing the team to maintain its workflow. "We all got in here on Sunday, and Monday morning was no different than working out of The Star," Schottenheimer explained, referencing the Cowboys’ headquarters.

However, Schottenheimer is aware of the significant challenges that lie ahead. He is closely monitoring quarterback Dak Prescott’s recovery from a serious hamstring injury that prematurely ended his season. He must also consider the potential impact of veteran guard Zack Martin’s expected retirement, a loss that would create a void on the offensive line. Furthermore, Schottenheimer hopes to avoid the contract-related distractions that plagued the team last season, even with All-Pro linebacker Micah Parsons poised to negotiate a lucrative extension.

Despite these challenges, Schottenheimer embraces the opportunity to lead the Colts, a team seeking to rebound from a disappointing 7-10 season following three consecutive 12-win campaigns under his predecessor, Mike McCarthy. "I’m ready for it, always have been," Schottenheimer asserted, "way more ready for it now than I was probably when I was 32 and had some opportunities." He believes his experience and clarity of vision have prepared him for this moment. "But I think the biggest thing for me would be it’s way more clear to me now what I want to do, how I want to do it – with a special culture about winning, about doing it with the right type of people."

Schottenheimer has found invaluable support from his fellow head coaches throughout the league, who have readily offered guidance and advice. "I’d say the other head coaches have been amazing," Schottenheimer noted, acknowledging the camaraderie within the profession. "They’ve reached out to me. They’ve been awesome as sounding boards."

Among those providing support is Eberflus, whom the Bears unceremoniously fired midseason. Eberflus’s return to North Texas, where he previously served as the Cowboys’ linebackers coach, provides Schottenheimer with a trusted advisor and defensive strategist. Recognizing the constant stream of unforeseen challenges, Schottenheimer relies on Eberflus’s expertise and experience to navigate the complexities of his new role. "Think the world of him," said Schottenheimer. "I think that that was just an incredible hire for us – and one that, quite honestly, that a lot of people were trying to get him. And we were able to get him, which is great for me – not just as a coach, but as a man."

Schottenheimer also expressed deep admiration for his two most recent bosses, McCarthy and Pete Carroll. Despite McCarthy’s departure, Schottenheimer holds him in high regard, describing him as "one of my best friends in football" and "an amazing coach, an amazing mentor." He also believes McCarthy will soon return to the sidelines.

Carroll, who previously fired Schottenheimer during his tenure as the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator, has also left a lasting impact. "Pete’s been incredibly impactful to me," Schottenheimer stated. "And what do I mean by that? I mean the way he looks at the game, the way he wants people to let their own personality shine and not kinda put people into a box, per se, I think that’s one of his greatest strengths – even at his age – his energy, his juice, his passion." Schottenheimer acknowledged their "hard breakup" in Seattle but emphasized the valuable lessons he learned from Carroll.

Carroll challenged Schottenheimer to define his own coaching philosophy, urging him to embrace his unique perspective and knowledge of the game. "He said, ‘Schotty, in a lot of ways you’re a football savant. You’ve been around the game your whole life, there’s things that you’ve learned along the way that you don’t even know you’ve learned. But what do you really believe in?" Schottenheimer shared. "And I thought that was really, really cool. And he didn’t have to do that. But, yeah, amazing coach. Truly of all the coaches, including my father, he’s the guy I probably model myself the most after."

Schottenheimer, the son of the legendary Marty Schottenheimer, is determined to lead the Colts to the Super Bowl, a feat that eluded his father during his illustrious career. If he can replicate the success of Carroll and McCarthy and bring the Lombardi Trophy to Indianapolis, his life will undoubtedly change forever.