Dallas Cowboys fans have had an uneven time attempting to talk themselves into new head coach Brian Schottenheimer. The lack of proven experience is a bit alarming when you look at the hirings within the same cycle. It is the type of organization you would expect to land Pete Carroll or Bill Belichick in a blockbuster move. However, hiring the coach they knew was the move for Stephen and Jerry Jones. Now, the fan base is left talking itself into believing the head coach will be the right leader to get the best out of Dak Prescott.
The blockbuster trade for George Pickens certainly helps matters when considering the team's ceiling. Schottenheimer has been handed the talent and must be able to at least produce a wildcard spot in a loaded division. With this in mind, the head coach understands the pressure of the season and the need for chemistry. Leading to the head coach taking his team for a surprising activity for those who showed up for the optional portion of preseason activities.
Dallas Cowboys Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer Took the Roster for a Day of Paintball
This move accomplishes a lot for a head coach, wasting no time forming an impression. Tyler Smith commented that it was "really cool to start things off on a fun note." Not only is the head coach starting things off on a fun note, but he is also rewarding the dedication of players who showed up for an optional part of the offseason program.
It is a fun distraction from the grind of the offseason that allows for team bonding and sets the tone for the season to come. If there was ever a headline that helped give Dallas fans a reason to believe in its new head coach, it is this decision. One that serves more than one purpose and gives the team a fun offseason story ahead of a year weighted by expectations.
For Schottenheimer, this decision helps serve as a page turn as well as a reminder that the old way of doing things is gone. Despite the continuity in the coaching staff, there is new leadership in place, and this means a fresh approach that Dallas players and fans can buy into. It was a fun and savvy move for a head coach who is continuing to win over his players and the Cowboys fan base.