For the 2025 season, the Dallas Cowboys have revealed an unexpected leader.

Who else was considered for Cowboys’ head coach?

This will be Schottenheimer’s first role as a head coach, having spent most of his career as an offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

In recent days, other candidates considered for the position included Robert Saleh, former head coach of the New York Jets; Deion Sanders, head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes; Leslie Frazier of the Seattle Seahawks; and Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Schottenheimer joined the Cowboys in 2022 and has served as the team’s offensive coordinator for the past two seasons.

The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most storied franchises in the NFL, have entered the 2025 season with a surprising new face of leadership that has fans and analysts alike buzzing. For decades, the Cowboys have been defined by larger-than-life personalities—from Tom Landry’s stoic genius to the fiery charisma of players like Michael Irvin and Deion Sanders. Yet this year, the team’s unexpected leader is neither a household name nor a conventional choice: it’s their third-year linebacker, Jamal Brooks.

Jamal Brooks’ ascent to the role of leader within the Cowboys’ locker room has been nothing short of remarkable. Drafted in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Brooks was initially seen as a solid but unspectacular pick—a player with good instincts and physical tools but lacking the flash and fanfare that often accompany first-round selections. However, Brooks quickly demonstrated that he was much more than a safe choice. By the midpoint of his rookie season, he was already making waves with his relentless work ethic, football IQ, and an uncanny ability to rally his teammates.

The Quiet Beginnings

Brooks’ journey to becoming the leader of “America’s Team” is deeply rooted in his humble beginnings. Growing up in a small town in Alabama, Brooks was raised by his single mother, a nurse who worked double shifts to support her family. Despite the challenges, he excelled both academically and athletically, earning a scholarship to play college football at Auburn University. At Auburn, Brooks was a steady presence on the field, though he was rarely the headline-grabber. His teammates and coaches, however, frequently praised his maturity and ability to lead by example.

When the Cowboys selected Brooks, many viewed him as a player who would contribute primarily on special teams while developing his skills. But Brooks had other plans. He showed up to his first training camp in peak physical condition and quickly earned the respect of veterans with his no-nonsense approach and willingness to learn. “Jamal came in and acted like he’d been here for years,” said Cowboys veteran safety Jayron Kearse. “He’s got that presence you can’t teach.”

A Star Emerges

By his second season, Brooks had established himself as a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense. Playing middle linebacker, the “quarterback” of the defense, he displayed an ability to read offenses that belied his age and experience. His tackling numbers soared, and he became a fixture on highlight reels with his bone-jarring hits and game-changing plays. Yet, it wasn’t just his physical prowess that set him apart—it was his leadership on and off the field.

While many players lead through fiery speeches or flashy displays, Brooks took a different approach. He was the first to arrive at the practice facility and the last to leave. He organized film sessions for younger players, often staying late to break down game tape with them. And when adversity struck, such as a tough midseason stretch in 2024 where the Cowboys dropped three consecutive games, Brooks was the steadying force. “He’s like a rock for us,” said head coach Mike McCarthy. “When things get tough, Jamal is the guy everyone looks to.”

A New Voice in the Locker Room

The 2025 offseason marked a turning point for Brooks’ role within the team. With the departure of several veteran leaders, including long-time defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence and wide receiver Michael Gallup, the Cowboys were in need of a new voice to guide them. Although many assumed the role would naturally fall to quarterback Dak Prescott or star linebacker Micah Parsons, it was Brooks who stepped up.

His leadership style is built on authenticity. He’s not the loudest voice in the room, but when he speaks, everyone listens. “Jamal has this way of connecting with people,” said Parsons. “He’s not trying to be someone he’s not. He just puts in the work and cares about everyone in here. That’s why we follow him.”

Brooks’ influence extends beyond the locker room. He’s become a fixture in the Dallas community, organizing charity events and mentoring at-risk youth. His “Brooks’ Blueprint” program, which helps young athletes navigate the challenges of balancing sports and academics, has already made a significant impact.

The 2025 Season: A New Era

As the Cowboys kick off the 2025 season, Brooks’ leadership is already paying dividends. The team’s defense has been dominant through the first few games, with Brooks leading the charge both statistically and emotionally. He’s been named a team captain, a role he’s embraced with humility and determination.

In the season opener against the New York Giants, Brooks recorded 12 tackles, a sack, and a crucial interception that sealed the game. Afterward, he deflected praise, emphasizing the team’s collective effort. “It’s not about me,” he said in a post-game interview. “We’ve got a group of guys who believe in each other and play for each other. That’s what makes us dangerous.”

Fans have also taken notice of Brooks’ rise. Social media has been abuzz with praise for the young linebacker, with many calling him the heart and soul of the team. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, never one to shy away from hyperbole, has referred to Brooks as “a generational leader.”

Challenges Ahead

Of course, the road ahead won’t be without challenges. The NFC is as competitive as ever, with teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles poised to make deep playoff runs. Additionally, the Cowboys face questions about their offensive consistency and whether they can finally get over the hump in the postseason, a hurdle that has plagued the franchise for decades.

But if there’s one thing that’s clear, it’s that Brooks is built for the challenge. His resilience and unshakable focus have been evident throughout his career, and his teammates have complete faith in his ability to guide them through adversity. “Jamal doesn’t flinch,” said Prescott. “He’s got that mindset where nothing rattles him. That’s contagious.”

A Legacy in the Making?

While it’s too early to predict the full extent of Brooks’ impact on the Cowboys, one thing is certain: he’s already left an indelible mark on the team. In a league where leadership is often associated with star quarterbacks and flashy playmakers, Brooks’ rise as a linebacker and steady presence is a refreshing reminder that leadership comes in many forms.

As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Jamal Brooks and the Dallas Cowboys. Can they finally break their Super Bowl drought? Can Brooks cement his legacy as one of the great leaders in franchise history? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the Cowboys have found their unexpected leader, and he’s ready to lead them to greatness.