Will McClay Excited About the “Different Energy” That Brian Schottenheimer and His Staff Bring to the Cowboys

In a fresh and exciting turn for the Dallas Cowboys, Vice President of Player Personnel, Will McClay, has expressed his enthusiasm about the new direction the team is heading under the leadership of Brian Schottenheimer and his coaching staff. After years of building a strong roster and developing talent, McClay’s excitement reflects the Cowboys’ anticipation for the 2025 season, especially with the infusion of a new coaching approach and philosophy.

A New Energy in the Cowboys’ Coaching Staff

Schottenheimer, who joined the Cowboys in the offseason, has already made a notable impact on the team with his “different energy.” As McClay shared, the energy and collaborative spirit that Schottenheimer brings to the table have energized the entire organization, from the front office to the players on the field. It’s clear that McClay is a strong proponent of the change, highlighting the optimism surrounding this new phase of the Cowboys’ coaching and player development.

“We’re just excited about the possibilities with the staff and what they bring to the table,” McClay said. “It’s definitely a different energy, and it’s exciting to see the fresh perspectives that they bring. We believe this coaching staff is going to help us take the next step.”

McClay’s words echo a sense of optimism that Cowboys fans have been craving after a string of solid but not quite championship-winning seasons. The 2025 Cowboys roster, under Schottenheimer’s guidance, is expected to be more dynamic, strategic, and prepared to overcome the challenges that have eluded them in past playoff runs.

A Blend of Experience and Innovation

One of the most exciting aspects of Schottenheimer’s coaching staff is its mix of experience, both from the NFL and the college ranks. Schottenheimer has carefully assembled a group of coaches with diverse backgrounds, each bringing their own perspectives and innovative approaches to player development, team strategy, and game planning. This blending of old-school football mentality with modern coaching techniques is something that McClay sees as a potential game-changer for the team.

“We’ve got a mix of experienced NFL coaches and those who have a deep understanding of college football, and it’s that blend that we think is going to give us a unique advantage,” McClay explained. “We’ve always prided ourselves on being able to adapt and evolve, and with this staff, we’re in a position to do that.”

By introducing new ideas and ways of evaluating talent, the Cowboys are setting themselves up to be more flexible in their approach to roster building and in-game decision-making. This type of evolution is particularly important in today’s NFL, where the pace of the game and the strategic demands of coaching are ever-changing.

The Focus on Player Development

Another cornerstone of McClay’s excitement comes from Schottenheimer’s emphasis on player development. McClay, known for his ability to spot talent and help develop it within the Cowboys organization, sees a lot of potential in the synergy between Schottenheimer’s approach and his own player development philosophy.

“We’ve always focused on developing players and ensuring that they get better every year,” McClay said. “But this coaching staff is looking at things from a fresh angle. The offseason program, the way they’ll be integrating new players, and how they’ll continue to grow existing talent — it’s going to make a big difference.”

Schottenheimer’s staff is already putting a plan in place to work closely with each player, focusing on improving fundamentals, boosting confidence, and adapting to the unique needs of each individual. This personalized approach to player growth is expected to not only enhance the team’s overall performance but also to make a significant impact on individual players’ development.

Schottenheimer’s Methodical Approach to Building the Staff

Schottenheimer’s approach to building his coaching staff has also been methodical and strategic. Rather than relying on familiar names and past relationships, Schottenheimer has looked to bring in individuals who are forward-thinking, open to new ideas, and able to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the NFL.

“We wanted a staff that would challenge each other, that would bring new ideas to the table, and that would be willing to collaborate in a way that fosters innovation,” McClay explained. “It’s not just about what you know, it’s about how you’re able to evolve with the game, and that’s what we’re seeing from Brian and his team.”

This philosophy of collaboration and bringing in fresh perspectives has already begun to permeate the culture within the Cowboys’ organization. The emphasis on continuous learning and adaptability is sure to provide the Cowboys with a competitive edge that has been lacking in years past.