Brian Schottenheimer’s Coaching Staff Takes Shape with Clayton Adams

A Coaching Search That Raised Eyebrows Before landing on Brian Schottenheimer as their offensive coordinator, the Dallas Cowboys’ coaching search sparked plenty of debate. While some fans may not have been thrilled with the process, it’s impossible to ignore the intriguing staff Schottenheimer is assembling. One hire, in particular, stands out: the addition of Clayton Adams as offensive coordinator, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Adams, previously the offensive line coach for the Arizona Cardinals, brings a fresh perspective to Dallas’ offensive approach.

What Clayton Adams Brings to the Cowboys Cowboys fans should be excited about this hire. With Schottenheimer set to call plays next season, he has made it clear that he wants the offense to emphasize the run game. Adams fits that vision perfectly and could bring a much-needed change in philosophy. While the Cowboys have leaned heavily on an inside-zone rushing scheme for years, Adams comes from an offensive system that thrives on gap-scheme concepts.

For too long, Dallas has struggled to incorporate effective variations in its running game. Under multiple coaching regimes, the team has lacked creativity in this department. Adams, however, is well-versed in implementing counter and power run concepts that keep defenses on their heels.

A Proven Track Record of Run Game Innovation Adams’ background is impressive. Last season, the Cardinals led the NFL in pulling blockers per Sports Info Solutions, while the Cowboys ranked just 22nd. Arizona also ran the second-most counter plays in the league, whereas Dallas ranked 30th. This stark contrast highlights how Adams could breathe new life into a stale Cowboys rushing attack.

The Cardinals’ offense excelled at disguising their runs, executing counters from various formations and personnel groupings. Their offensive line was built for movement, utilizing athletic linemen to create leverage and open lanes. Bringing that philosophy to Dallas signals a significant shift in how the Cowboys will approach the ground game.

A Willingness to Adapt and Evolve One of the most encouraging signs from Schottenheimer’s decision to hire Adams is the willingness to learn from what works around the league. While Schottenheimer has his own preferred run concepts, he is showing an openness to innovation by bringing in a coach with a different philosophy.

Despite Adams’ background in a vastly different offensive system, Schottenheimer is clearly looking to tap into Arizona’s run-game success. The numbers speak for themselves: last season, the Cardinals ranked second in yards per attempt, sixth in EPA per attempt, and were the second-most explosive rushing unit in the league, per Sports Info Solutions.

Counter Runs and a More Dynamic Offensive Line Adams specializes in implementing counter runs, which require offensive linemen and tight ends to serve as pulling blockers. This approach creates misdirection and allows blockers to build momentum before engaging defenders. It’s a system that rewards athletic, physical linemen who can move in space.

The Cowboys already have the personnel to execute this strategy effectively. Players like Tyler Smith, Brock Hoffman, Cooper Beebe, and Terence Steele are all aggressive, mobile linemen who can thrive in this type of system. Additionally, rookie Tyler Guyton, though unproven in the NFL, showed impressive ability in open space during his time at Oklahoma. If Adams can successfully implement his philosophy, the Cowboys’ offensive line could become one of the most dynamic units in the league.

Additional Contributions Adams Brings Beyond his impact on the running game, Adams brings other valuable elements to the Cowboys’ offense:

• Pass Protection Strength: Under Adams, the Cardinals’ offensive line ranked fourth in pass protection grades, per Pro Football Focus (PFF). This could be a major asset for protecting Dak Prescott and giving him more time in the pocket.
• Discipline in Key Areas: While Arizona’s offensive line struggled with holding penalties (ranking last in the league), they were one of the least penalized teams for false starts (third-least in the NFL). Adams’ coaching emphasizes discipline at the line of scrimmage.
• Heavy Use of Tight Ends: The Cardinals frequently utilized multiple tight-end sets, ranking ninth in the league in 12-personnel groupings and second in 13-personnel groupings. This suggests that Dallas may incorporate more tight-end-heavy formations, potentially maximizing the talents of Jake Ferguson and Luke Schoonmaker.

A Bold Step Forward for the Cowboys The hiring of Clayton Adams sends a loud and clear message: the Cowboys are committed to evolving their offensive identity. By integrating Adams’ expertise in counter runs and pulling schemes, Dallas is poised to create a more unpredictable and effective rushing attack.

While some fans may have been skeptical about the coaching search, it’s hard to ignore the potential of this new staff. With Adams on board, the Cowboys are taking a major step toward refining their offensive approach and becoming a more balanced, dynamic team in 2024.