Dallas Cowboys Speed Up Coaching Staff Changes: Tashard Choice on Their Radar

The Dallas Cowboys are actively reshaping their offensive coaching staff, and the latest move could significantly impact their running game. After hiring offensive coordinator Klayton Adams on Friday, the Cowboys are now turning their attention to filling the running backs coaching vacancy, with Tashard Choice at the top of the list. This move could bring a fresh approach to the Cowboys’ running game, especially with the potential addition of a gap scheme injection, including counter plays, that Adams is known for.

Tashard Choice: A Familiar Face with Big Impact

Tashard Choice’s name is well-known to Cowboys fans, as he played for the team between 2008 and 2011, leaving a solid impression as a reliable back. However, his connection to the Cowboys doesn’t end there. In 2016, Choice returned to Dallas as a coaching intern under Jason Garrett, working closely with the team’s running backs. Now, the former fourth-round pick is being considered for the coaching role following his successful stint as a running backs coach at the University of Texas.

As a coach at Texas, Choice has had a hand in developing some of the best running backs in college football. Under his guidance, Bijan Robinson had a breakout season in 2022, cementing himself as one of the top running backs in the country. In 2023, Jonathan Brooks followed suit, making a significant impact. Even without superstars, Choice’s running back group thrived, and Texas reached the College Football Playoffs, a testament to his ability to get the best out of his players.

Choice’s Success at Texas: Turning Adversity Into Triumph

Choice’s impact at Texas wasn’t just about developing top-tier talent—he also demonstrated his ability to adapt when adversity hit. The running back room at Texas faced significant challenges in 2023, with injuries to key players like CJ Baxter and Christian Clark during preseason. Despite these setbacks, Choice managed to keep the group productive. The Longhorns finished 10th in the SEC for rushing yards per game, averaging 158.8 yards per contest.

Players like Jaydon Blue, Quintrévion Whisper, and Jerrick Gibson stepped up, overcoming obstacles and delivering impressive performances. Blue, in particular, had a memorable run, including a 146-yard, two-touchdown game against Clemson in the College Football Playoffs. Whisper topped the team with 1,064 yards and five touchdowns, further demonstrating the success of Choice’s coaching style.

According to A to Z Sports’ Texas Longhorns expert, Brian Davis, Choice’s impact on the group was a direct result of his tough, no-nonsense approach. Choice and head coach Steve Sarkisian instilled a mentality of discipline, making players like Blue carry the football around all day long as part of their training—similar to the famous scene in the movie The Program.

The Road Ahead: Can the Cowboys Land Choice?

While Choice’s accomplishments as a running backs coach are impressive, the Cowboys will face a tough challenge in convincing him to leave Texas. According to Davis, Choice is currently earning $700,000 a year with the Longhorns, and with Texas being a top contender for next year’s National Championship, it’s unclear if Choice would be willing to leave for a new opportunity.

If Jerry Jones and the Cowboys want to lure him away, they will likely have to open their wallets. With the pressure to improve their running game and take it to the next level, hiring a proven coach like Choice could be the key to unlocking the potential of their offense.

As the interview process unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the Cowboys can secure Choice’s services, but one thing is clear: if they do, his coaching could be a game-changer for the Dallas running backs. The future of the Cowboys’ offense looks exciting, and Tashard Choice could be a big part of that.