The Dallas Cowboys’ Coaching Evolution Under Brian Schottenheimer

A New Era Begins

The Dallas Cowboys are entering a new chapter under head coach Brian Schottenheimer. As the franchise gears up for the 2025 season, three key defensive hires have been made to shape the team’s future. The Cowboys have welcomed Dave Borgonzi, Aaron Whitecotton, and Andre Curtis to their coaching staff, solidifying their defensive leadership. While each of these hires has ties to newly appointed defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, Schottenheimer had the final say in assembling his staff.

Meet the New Coaching Additions

The latest hires bring a mix of experience, familiarity, and expertise to Dallas:

• Dave Borgonzi – Linebackers Coach
• Aaron Whitecotton – Defensive Line Coach
• Andre Curtis – Passing Game Coordinator

These strategic appointments reflect the Cowboys’ commitment to strengthening their defensive foundation with seasoned professionals who have already made an impact across the league.

Dave Borgonzi Returns to Dallas

Borgonzi is no stranger to the Cowboys. He previously served as the team’s linebackers coach from 2012 to 2013, working under former head coach Jason Garrett. During that tenure, he played a pivotal role in coaching future Hall of Famer DeMarcus Ware and overseeing Anthony Spencer’s breakout Pro Bowl season, where Spencer led the team with 95 tackles and 11 sacks. Borgonzi most recently worked with Eberflus in Chicago, making his return to Dallas a seamless transition.

Aaron Whitecotton Brings Defensive Line Expertise

Whitecotton joins the Cowboys after spending four seasons with the New York Jets under head coach Robert Saleh. He was a sought-after candidate, even interviewing for the Green Bay Packers’ defensive line coach position. His experience extends beyond the Jets, having worked with the San Francisco 49ers, Buffalo Bills, and Jacksonville Jaguars. Whitecotton’s arrival in Dallas signifies a fresh approach to fortifying the defensive line.

Andre Curtis Strengthens the Secondary

Curtis arrives with extensive experience coaching defensive backs and coordinating the passing game. He previously worked with the Seattle Seahawks from 2015 to 2021, a period when Schottenheimer served as the team’s offensive coordinator. Curtis also collaborated with Eberflus in Chicago last season, coaching safeties. His familiarity with both Schottenheimer and Eberflus makes him a natural fit for Dallas’ defensive transformation.

A New Defensive Vision

These coaching changes mark a significant shift for the Cowboys’ defense. Eberflus steps in as the defensive coordinator, taking over from Mike Zimmer. Whitecotton replaces Jeff Zgonina as the defensive line coach, while Borgonzi fills the role previously held by Scott McCurley. Curtis, meanwhile, assumes responsibilities previously managed by Al Harris.

With a blend of past connections and fresh perspectives, the Dallas Cowboys are positioning themselves for a new defensive identity under Brian Schottenheimer. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on how this revamped coaching staff translates their expertise into success on the field.