Cowboys Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer Discusses Potential Cooper Beebe Move

As the Dallas Cowboys look to strengthen their offensive line heading into the 2025 NFL season, one of the key topics being discussed internally is the potential position change for second-year lineman Cooper Beebe. The Cowboys’ offensive line, long regarded as one of the team’s cornerstones, will have some significant decisions to make, especially with the retirement of veteran guard Zack Martin, leaving a notable gap.

In recent interviews, including one at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, Cowboys’ offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer provided insights into how the team views Beebe’s future and his potential shift back to the guard position.

A Quick Recap of Cooper Beebe’s Journey

Beebe, who made his way to the Cowboys as a rookie in 2024, was an impressive addition to the team’s offensive line. He played at center for much of his debut season, making his mark as a steady and reliable presence in the middle.

Before entering the NFL, Beebe built a strong reputation as a versatile offensive lineman at Kansas State. He played across multiple positions on the offensive line — including guard and tackle — showing flexibility and adaptability that made him an attractive prospect for the Cowboys. His transition to center in his rookie year with Dallas was relatively smooth, and he quickly became an integral part of the team’s starting lineup.

However, with the loss of Zack Martin, one of the top guards in the NFL, the question of whether Beebe should stay at center or be moved back to guard has been raised. The versatility that made Beebe so valuable at Kansas State is now a key factor in whether the Cowboys will keep him at center or shift him to the position where he originally thrived.

Brian Schottenheimer’s View on the Potential Move

Brian Schottenheimer, who has extensive experience as an offensive coordinator in the NFL, recently spoke about the possibility of moving Beebe back to guard. While Schottenheimer has not fully committed to this move, he did highlight the team’s willingness to explore all options as they shape the offensive line for 2025.

In his comments, Schottenheimer explained, “We always want to field the best five guys. That’s our goal.” He acknowledged that Beebe had an impressive rookie campaign at center, saying, “It’d be hard to move a guy that had that much experience playing center at a high level.” Schottenheimer’s words suggest that while Beebe’s ability to play center has been valuable, the Cowboys’ staff is also considering other options based on the needs of the line.

The Cowboys’ offensive line is currently going through some changes, and the uncertainty surrounding Beebe’s role is a part of that process. While Schottenheimer has expressed confidence in Beebe’s abilities at center, the team must also weigh the benefits of using him in other positions, particularly guard, where he has a history of success.

The Impact of Zack Martin’s Retirement

The retirement of Zack Martin has undoubtedly left a significant hole on the Cowboys’ offensive line. Martin was one of the NFL’s most dominant guards, and his absence will be felt not just in terms of his on-field play, but also in terms of leadership and experience. This creates an immediate need for the Cowboys to find a reliable replacement, someone who can both fill the gap and continue the offensive line’s tradition of excellence.

Beebe’s name has come up as a potential solution. Although he had a successful season at center, the Cowboys could move him back to guard, his original position at Kansas State, to strengthen the line. The question is whether this move is the best long-term option or if Beebe should remain at center where he showed a high level of competence.

The Versatility Factor

Cooper Beebe’s versatility is perhaps his most valuable asset in this situation. Having played at multiple positions during his college career, Beebe is capable of stepping into various roles on the offensive line. This ability to adapt makes him an attractive option for the Cowboys as they look to find the best solution to fill the hole left by Martin’s retirement.

In addition to Beebe, the Cowboys will likely have to explore other options to strengthen their offensive line, but Beebe’s ability to play at multiple spots provides the flexibility needed to create a balanced and competitive unit. Whether he remains at center or shifts back to guard, his adaptability will play a crucial role in ensuring the team’s success up front.

The Cowboys’ Long-Term Goals for the Offensive Line

Ultimately, the Cowboys’ goal is to maintain a strong offensive line that can protect quarterback Dak Prescott and create running lanes for star running back Tony Pollard. The offensive line has been a consistent strength for the Cowboys in recent years, and Schottenheimer, along with head coach Mike McCarthy, understands the importance of maintaining that stability.

Schottenheimer’s comments point to a larger philosophy that has long defined the Cowboys: fielding the best five offensive linemen regardless of position. In a system that prioritizes balance and adaptability, Beebe’s ability to move between positions makes him an invaluable asset. However, the decision will ultimately come down to what is best for the team’s overall performance and the combination of players that can provide the most cohesive and effective line.

What Does the Future Hold?

As of now, the future of Cooper Beebe remains somewhat uncertain. While he has shown promise at center, the Cowboys’ decision to move him back to guard could be a key piece of the puzzle for a successful 2025 season. Whether or not this move happens will likely depend on how the rest of the roster shapes up, the development of other offensive linemen, and how well Beebe adjusts to the demands of the position.

For now, it’s clear that Schottenheimer and the Cowboys’ coaching staff are committed to exploring all possibilities. Moving Beebe to guard could be a step toward maintaining the offensive line’s strength in the wake of Martin’s retirement. However, with Beebe’s flexibility and proven ability to excel at multiple positions, the Cowboys will take their time to make the best decision for their long-term success.