Three offensive coordinator candidates who can replace Kellen Moore
The Cowboys are looking for a new offensive coordinator after the team and former OC Kellen Moore mutually parted ways on Sunday.
According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, head coach Mike McCarthy is considering taking over play calling, but that’s not official.
Replacing Moore, who the Chargers hired on Monday, is a top priority.
In four seasons under Moore, the Cowboys ranked top six in scoring offense three times, per The Athletic’s Jon Machota. Dallas must maintain the production level to break its 27-year title drought.
Here are three possible candidates that can fill the role.
Brian Schottenheimer, Dallas Cowboys, coaching consultant
Promoting Schottenheimer may be the right move since he’s familiar with the roster and has OC experience.
Schottenheimer was Seattle’s OC from 2018-20. Former Seahawks QB Russell Wilson posted career bests in passer rating (110.9) and passing TDS (40) during Schottenheimer’s tenure.
Recharging Dak Prescott is critical because he threw 15 interceptions in 12 starts, tying for the league lead. Dallas should hire someone who can maximize a quarterback’s talents so Prescott can bounce back.
Jeff Nixon, Carolina Panthers, assistant HC
According to Joseph Person of The Athletic, the Cowboys plan to interview Nixon. Nixon was the RB coach and interim OC before being promoted to assistant HC this season.
Although the Panthers fired HC Matt Rhule after five games, traded Christian McCaffery and limped to a 7-10 record, Carolina developed a consistent rushing attack. It ranked 10th in rushing offense, per Pro Football Reference.
A solid ground game is vital for Dallas because it’s an offensive cornerstone. Dallas had the league’s sixth-most rushing attempts (531) this season.
Zac Robinson, Los Angeles Rams, QB coach/passing-game coordinator
The Rams did regress in Robinson’s first season as passing-game coordinator, falling to 27th in the league. However, the drop ties to Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp suffering season-ending injuries.
When Stafford was healthy, he excelled under Robinson’s guidance, throwing a career-high 41 TDs and winning his first Super Bowl.
Some of Sean McVay’s disciples experienced success elsewhere, such as Bengals HC Zac Taylor. In three seasons under Taylor, Joe Burrow threw 30 or more touchdowns twice. If Robinson possesses similar offensive expertise, Dallas should strongly consider him.
