The Dallas Cowboys are in the midst of restructuring their coaching staff after the sudden departure of head coach Mike McCarthy. With Brian Schottenheimer now at the helm, the organization is working on assembling a strong staff to help the team bounce back in 2025. One of the most critical decisions for Schottenheimer is selecting a new offensive coordinator, a role he previously held. However, one candidate reportedly under consideration has already sparked significant controversy among fans.
Cowboys’ OC Search Draws Mixed Reactions
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently reported that the Cowboys are considering Ken Dorsey, a coach who has struggled in his last two stops as an offensive coordinator. Dorsey, who previously worked with the Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills, has not had a smooth tenure in recent years.
“#Cowboys are considering former #Browns OC Ken Dorsey for their offensive coordinator position, per source. Interview to be determined but logistics being discussed,” Fowler shared in a post on X.
Dorsey’s most recent stint in Cleveland did not yield promising results. The Browns finished the season ranked 28th in total yards and dead last—32nd—in points scored. Though Dorsey took over play-calling duties midway through the season, he was unable to turn things around. Part of the challenge stemmed from quarterback Deshaun Watson’s season-ending injury, which left the team reliant on veteran backup Jameis Winston. However, Winston was unable to provide stability, and the offense continued to falter.
Prior to his time in Cleveland, Dorsey served as the offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills. While the Bills’ offense showed promise under his leadership, he was dismissed midway through the 2023 season. His firing raised concerns about his ability to sustain success in the league. Cowboys reporter Joseph Hoyt pointed out the alarming pattern in Dorsey’s career trajectory.
“Interesting. Ken Dorsey has been fired each of the last two seasons (Bills, Browns),” Hoyt shared on X.
Fans React to Dorsey’s Potential Hiring
The potential hiring of Dorsey has been met with skepticism by many Cowboys fans. Several expressed their discontent on social media, questioning whether he is the right fit for the team’s offensive vision.
“You can NEVER sell me on Ken Dorsey,” one fan wrote on X, reflecting the general sentiment of disappointment.
While much of the response has been negative, some fans defended Dorsey’s past work. Supporters pointed out that despite the Bills’ turnover struggles, Dorsey helped orchestrate one of the league’s most potent offenses in Buffalo. Additionally, they noted that he managed to get some impressive performances from Winston during his short stint in Cleveland.
However, many fans appear to favor another reported candidate for the job: Arizona Cardinals offensive line coach Klayton Adams. Some supporters have been vocal in their preference for Adams, believing he would be a better fit for the Cowboys’ offensive identity.
“Klayton Adams for the new #DallasCowboys OC or we RIOT!” one enthusiastic fan declared on social media.
Cowboys’ Vision for the Offense
Regardless of who ultimately lands the offensive coordinator role, the Cowboys’ leadership has made it clear they want to prioritize the running game. Cowboys COO Stephen Jones recently emphasized the importance of balancing the pass and run game in the team’s offensive approach.
“I think most of these guys always want to check the run game box,” Jones told the team’s official website. “Most of these guys are very, if you will, fluent when it comes to throwing the ball around the yard. But you always want a great offensive line coach, a great running game coordinator. And of course, the key this day and time is to marry that run game to the pass game.”
This statement underscores the team’s commitment to building an offense with a strong foundation in the ground game, which could factor into their selection process for an offensive coordinator. If Schottenheimer and the Cowboys view a run-heavy scheme as a priority, they may lean toward a candidate who aligns with that philosophy.
The Schottenheimer Era Begins
Newly appointed head coach Brian Schottenheimer is taking charge of the Cowboys with confidence, vowing to lead the team to a championship. During his introductory press conference, Schottenheimer expressed his commitment to bringing success back to Dallas.
His challenge will be navigating the high expectations that come with coaching one of the NFL’s most scrutinized franchises. Part of that challenge includes assembling the right staff, and the decision regarding the offensive coordinator will be one of the defining moments of his early tenure.
With the Cowboys looking to rebound in 2025, the hiring of the right offensive coordinator will be crucial. Whether it ends up being Dorsey, Adams, or another candidate, the pressure will be on to deliver results immediately. Fans will be watching closely, hoping that Schottenheimer’s staff decisions lead to a much-needed turnaround.
