Jerry Jones
Maybe the term "thin ice" doesn't apply to Jerry Jones. He is obviously not in danger of losing his job as the ultimate decision-maker in Dallas. However, the risky Schottenheimer hire will certainly put Jones under heavy scrutiny.
The Cowboys management regularly faces a ton of criticism from the fans and the media. Jerry Jones regularly puts profit and popularity over on-field success. He famously wants to have ultimate control over this franchise and the Schottenheimer pick gives him that opportunity. Jones will not be paying top dollar for his new head coach while maintaining total authority over how this team is run and how this roster is built.
Schottenheimer doesn't have the sway to challenge Jones. While this is exactly the management style Jones wants, it also puts a burden on him. If the Cowboys fail again in 2025, no one will blame Schottenheimer. Jones will bear the brunt of another disappointing season due to this controversial decision.
Jones is already getting roasted by fans on social media who think this is a downgrade from Mike McCarthy. Schottenheimer is also a lower-profile name than any of the other candidates mentioned in the media.
Does Jones care? Probably not. But another failure of a season will do serious damage to his reputation as a leader.