In a significant development for the Dallas Cowboys, Brian Schottenheimer has taken the reins as the play-caller for the team in his first year as their offensive coordinator. Alongside Schottenheimer, the Cowboys have made an important move by hiring Klayton Adams, former offensive line coach for the Arizona Cardinals, as the team’s new offensive coordinator. Adams’ reputation across the league for his expertise in the run game has made him a valuable addition to the Cowboys’ staff.
Klayton Adams’ Run Game Success
Klayton Adams, who is 41 years old, brings with him a wealth of experience, especially in developing successful run games. During his two seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, Adams helped the team achieve impressive rankings in the NFL’s run game metrics. In 2024, the Cardinals finished with the seventh-best run game, averaging 144.2 rushing yards per game, and an impressive 5.3 yards per carry. This success under Adams’ leadership provides optimism for the Cowboys, who struggled with their own rushing game in the previous season.
The Cowboys’ rushing game in 2024 was relatively lackluster compared to the Cardinals’ success. The team was led by Rico Dowdle, who rushed for 1,079 yards but only managed to score two touchdowns. In total, the Cowboys finished with just six rushing touchdowns for the season, a stark contrast to the Cardinals’ successful ground attack. With Adams’ experience, the Cowboys hope to improve their rushing offense and find more success in the running game in the upcoming season.
Cowboys’ Additional Coaching Moves
Alongside the hiring of Adams, the Cowboys are expected to make further adjustments to their coaching staff. They are planning to hire an offensive line coach, which will complement Adams’ role. The team has also interviewed other coaching candidates for key positions, including Scottie Montgomery, the running backs coach for the Detroit Lions, and Kevin Koger, the tight ends coach for the Atlanta Falcons. Additionally, the Cowboys have had discussions with Ken Dorsey, the former offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills and Cleveland Browns.
Brian Schottenheimer has been busy filling out his coaching staff for the Cowboys. In addition to Adams, Schottenheimer has secured Matt Eberflus as defensive coordinator and Nick Sorensen as special teams coordinator. However, the team still has several coaching vacancies, including positions for running backs and wide receivers. In addition, the Cowboys recently interviewed Derrick Foster, the running backs coach for the New Orleans Saints, further indicating their focus on strengthening their offensive coaching staff.