Jason Witten Eyes NFL Coaching Future After Cowboys Pass on Him for Staff Role

The Dallas Cowboys have turned the page to a new era with Brian Schottenheimer as their head coach, but one franchise legend won’t be joining the staff—at least, not yet.

Former Cowboys tight end Jason Witten revealed that he was never approached about a coaching role under Schottenheimer, despite speculation that he might be in the mix. However, Witten remains focused on his long-term goal of coaching in the NFL.

“I did not talk to Jerry about it,” Witten told reporters, referring to Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. “I think they went through a thorough process for them and got to a place where they felt like Brian was the guy.”

Although there were rumors about Witten joining the Cowboys’ staff, he clarified that no conversations took place with ownership or the front office. For now, he remains the head coach at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas, where he has led his team to back-to-back state championships.

Still, Witten made it clear that an NFL coaching opportunity is something he hopes for in the future.

“Of course, that’s a long-term goal of mine—one day to get back there when the right opportunity comes,” Witten said. “When the right time and the right opportunity comes, I’m excited to embark on that next chapter.”

Witten, one of the greatest players in Cowboys history, holds franchise records for receptions and receiving yards and is second in receiving touchdowns. Over 17 NFL seasons—16 with Dallas—he was an 11-time Pro Bowler and a two-time All-Pro.

While he may not be on the Cowboys’ sideline this season, his coaching career appears to be on the rise. Given his football IQ and leadership, it’s only a matter of time before Witten gets his shot at the NFL level.