At this year’s NFL Combine in Indianapolis, attendees experienced more than just prospects and draft discussions; it also offered touching moments of reflection. Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer expressed how much his father, Marty Schottenheimer, means to him on game days; Brian mentioned him frequently by name during conversational exchanges between games with opponents such as Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll.
“Oh man. Every single day. On game days I carry him with me as my cards show his pride for my achievements and me; here I go back into battle and remember him fondly as both an unforgettable coach but an outstanding father,” Brian explained.
When asked about his tradition of carrying his father’s card on game days, Brian was visibly moved. Fighting back tears, he reflected on the deep connection he still feels. The emotional moment was lightened with a bit of humor as Brian joked about an off-screen voice telling him to compose himself.
Marty Schottenheimer passed away on February 8, 2021, at the age of 77 after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Diagnosed in 2014, his condition gradually worsened before he entered hospice care in Charlotte.
On the field, Marty’s coaching legacy was remarkable. Known for his distinctive “Martyball” style, he achieved 200 regular-season wins and made 13 playoff appearances over 21 seasons as a head coach. His approach emphasized a strong running game and protecting the football. Despite never making it to a Super Bowl, his influence was significant, and he was honored by the Kansas City Chiefs in their Hall of Honor in 2010.
For Brian, every game serves as a tribute to the father who shaped him both personally and professionally. That small card in his pocket symbolizes a legacy far greater than wins and losses, filled with lessons, memories, and love. Marty’s teachings continue to guide Brian as he leads his team today.
Brian Schottenheimer Continues to Lean on His Father’s Teachings
While carrying the card is a deeply personal gesture, Marty’s impact goes well beyond sentimentality. His core coaching philosophies form the foundation of Brian’s leadership as he embarks on a new chapter with the Cowboys. The pressure, pride, and family name carry a special weight now more than ever.
Before facing the Eagles during the 2025 season, Brian said he places his hand over his heart to silently speak to God and his father.
“He’s my idol, the guy I looked up to from the time I was a little boy,” Brian said. “I’ve always wanted to make him proud. I had literally two things: It was my word… and my last name.”
Prior to Brian Schottenheimer becoming head coach, no Schottenheimer had held an NFL head coaching position since Marty Schottenheimer coached his last game on January 14, 2007. That game marked Marty’s last coaching job and resulted in a tough playoff defeat with his Chargers who had been amongst favorites for Super Bowl. These experiences left an indelible mark on Brian’s perspective of football.
Now in 2026, Brian is forging his own path with the Dallas Cowboys while maintaining the values taught to him by his father: honesty, discipline and pride in carrying forward their family name – values instilled through childhood experiences such as sports. Prior to every kickoff game – and even at private moments throughout – Brian takes time out for reflection before reminding himself who he is as an individual and of standards to uphold in each momentary silence before kickoffs take place.