Cowboys insiders believe Brian Schottenheimer will unleash team’s best-kept secret

It's time to give more reps to the underrated speedster.
Jun 10, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA;  Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer addresses the media before practice at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility in Frisco, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images
Jun 10, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer addresses the media before practice at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility in Frisco, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images | Chris Jones-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys got a gift when they saw KaVontae Turpin in the preseason three years ago. After taking a kickoff return and a punt return to the house, it became obvious as to who the next return specialist would be.

Turpin has had a young, but already respected NFL career. He's made two Pro Bowl appearances in three of his NFL seasons. Some of the best recievers started out as a return specialist before they became All-Pro receivers, like Tyreek Hill. We're not saying that's the exact ceiling for Turpin, but it makes Cowboys fans wonder if he can expand his game to new heights.

Cowboys insiders on the team's official website see Turpin elevating himself in 2025, largely due to what Mike McCarthy not being able to do what Brian Schottenheimer has already done.

Turpin projected to see more reps at WR thanks to Schottenheimer

Nick Eatman writes that Turpin can be one of the more "dangerous" players in the NFL, especially when he's in open space, and whenever he is, good luck to the defenders trying to bring him down. Eatman also credits Schottenheimer for installing Turpin more in the offense, and with McCarthy out, it seems like Turpin could be in for a breakout season.

"I think he's one of the most dangerous players in all of the NFL, when he's in space. That's the problem sometimes – getting him the ball with enough room to do something. But it's been told that Brian Schottenheimer was one of the reasons Turpin got the ball more later in the season last year, even running the ball in between the tackles."
Nick Eatman

Kurt Daniels is also crediting Schottenheimer for being the mastermind behind Turpin getting some increased reps. Turpin caught 31 receptions for 420 yards last season. Just think about what Schottenheimer can do for him in a full season without McCarthy in the way.

"Head coach Brian Schottenheimer has talked about utilizing more motion in an effort to get guys out in space, which would play right into Turpin's strengths. Let's hope that happens."
Kurt Daniels

With fifth-round pick Jaydon Blue set already making the Cowboys rethink the depth chart, this could be for an opportunity for Turpin to do the same. We already know he's a speedster that can light up any defense, but if Schottenheimer is able to install him as a full-time WR, the rest of the NFL is in for some long Sundays.