Dallas Cowboys part ways with Scott Linehan; Who’s next?
The Dallas Cowboys and offensive coordinator Scott Linehan have decided to part ways. What’s the next move for America’s Team?
The Dallas Cowboys offense struggled to get off the ground for most of the season. In fact, Dallas started 2018 losing four out of their first seven games. Their offense averaged 20 points per contest through their bye in Week Eight.
But a midseason trade for wide receiver Amari Cooper seemed to energize the Cowboys’ offense. Through their final nine games with Cooper in tow, Dallas’ offense would average 22.1 points per game, winning seven of those contests in an impressive stretch.
Despite the wins, the Cowboys’ offense was still far too inconsistent in 2018. Dallas ranked a lowly 22nd in scoring offense in the NFL last season, averaging 21.2 point per game.
Many blamed offensive coordinator Scott Linehan for the Cowboys’ offensive woes. Although execution by Dallas’ players was equally an issue. But recent comments by head coach Jason Garrett seemed to indicate Linehan’s job in Dallas was safe in 2019.
But on Friday, the Cowboys officially announced that the team and Linehan have decided to part ways after a five-year run, the last four of those seasons spent as offensive coordinator. Now Big D has an opening for a new OC.
The Cowboys playoff run means they are slightly late to the party as several NFL teams have already hired possible offensive coordinator candidates. But according to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Dallas has been talking to outside candidates for several days now.
Whomever becomes the next offensive coordinator in Dallas, their relationship with quarterback Dak Prescott and developing him will be paramount. That could point to an experienced coordinator with a history of working with similar passers.
The departure of Linehan is also a sign that the coaching changes in Dallas are likely not yet done. Quarterbacks coach Kellen Moore could be the next to go as his relationship and knowledge of Linehan’s system is what seemed to tie him to the job.
Next. Dallas Cowboys - 3 prospects for the 58th overall pick. dark
Pro Football Talk speculated recently that the Dallas Cowboys could be waiting on the outcome of this weekend’s NFC Championship game before making a decision about the future of Garrett in Dallas. It’s been rumored for quite some time that New Orleans Saints’ head coach Sean Payton might be the preferred option for Cowboys owner Jerry Jones as the next head coach to helm America’s Team.