Michael Irvin, a Hall of Fame wide receiver and former Dallas Cowboys star, has expressed strong disapproval over the team’s recent decision to hire Brian Schottenheimer as head coach. Irvin believes that by not appointing Deion Sanders, the Cowboys have “lost an opportunity” to revitalize the franchise.
Irvin’s Advocacy for Deion Sanders
Throughout the 2024 season, Irvin has been a vocal proponent of bringing Deion Sanders back to the Cowboys, this time as head coach. He highlighted Sanders’ leadership qualities and his deep connection to the team, having played alongside Irvin during the Cowboys’ Super Bowl XXX victory. Irvin emphasized that Sanders’ dynamic coaching style and ability to inspire players could be the catalyst the Cowboys need to return to prominence.
The Cowboys’ Decision to Hire Brian Schottenheimer
In late January 2025, the Cowboys announced the promotion of Brian Schottenheimer, the team’s offensive coordinator since 2022, to the head coach position. Schottenheimer, who has no prior head coaching experience, was chosen to maintain continuity within the organization. Owner Jerry Jones expressed confidence in Schottenheimer’s abilities, citing his extensive coaching lineage as the son of the late Marty Schottenheimer. However, this decision has been met with skepticism from former players and fans who question whether promoting from within is the bold move needed to rejuvenate the team.
Irvin’s Critique of the Hire
Irvin has been outspoken in his criticism of the Cowboys’ choice to hire Schottenheimer. He argues that promoting an internal candidate fails to address the team’s need for a fresh perspective and strong leadership. Irvin points to discipline issues within the team, such as a high number of penalties, and suggests that an external hire like Sanders could have instilled the necessary discipline and revitalized the team’s culture. He expressed his concerns in a 20-minute YouTube video, stating, “We lost an opportunity here… I was pushing for Deion Sanders to be the next head coach, and I still stand 10 toes down on that push.”
The Significance of Deion Sanders
Deion Sanders has made a significant impact as the head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, leading them to a 9-4 record in the 2024 season, a remarkable turnaround from a 1-11 record in 2022. His success at Colorado has fueled speculation about his potential to coach at the NFL level. Irvin believes that Sanders’ dynamic coaching style and ability to inspire players could be the catalyst the Cowboys need to return to prominence.
Irvin’s Concerns for the Cowboys
Irvin’s frustration stems from his belief that the Cowboys are missing an opportunity to restore their former glory. He notes that a generation of fans has grown up without experiencing a championship, and the team’s recent performance has led to a decline in its “America’s Team” moniker. Irvin warns that the Cowboys risk losing their identity and competitive edge if they do not make bold decisions to revitalize the franchise. He expressed his concerns, stating, “A third of Cowboys nation has never felt or lived the glory of a championship story… you’re about to get our moniker snatched off our backs.”
