Mike Zimmer Says that He will not be Returning to the #Cowboys as a Member of Brian Schottenheimer’s Coaching Staff and will likely Retire from Coaching in the League.
Mike Zimmer, the former defensive coordinator of the Minnesota Vikings, has confirmed he will not be returning to the Dallas Cowboys’ coaching staff under new offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer.
Zimmer, who has been a staple in the NFL for years, is expected to retire from coaching in the league, marking the end of an era for the experienced coach.
Zimmer, 67, spent eight seasons as the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, where he gained a reputation as one of the league’s top defensive minds. His defensive schemes were highly regarded, helping to turn the Vikings into a formidable defensive unit during his tenure.
Zimmer also previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys from 2000 to 2006 under head coach Bill Parcells, giving him deep ties to the organization. However, after the Cowboys hired Schottenheimer as their new offensive coordinator, Zimmer made the decision to step away from the team.
In a statement, Zimmer revealed that he would not be returning to the Cowboys for the 2025 season and hinted that he was leaning toward retirement. “It’s been an incredible ride, but I feel it’s time to step away from coaching.
I’ve had the privilege of working with so many great players and coaches, and I will always be grateful for the opportunities I’ve had in the NFL,” Zimmer shared.
Zimmer’s decision to retire comes after a long and successful career that began in the NFL as an assistant coach in the late 1980s. Over the years, he built a reputation for his defensive prowess, working with numerous teams including the Dallas Cowboys, Cincinnati Bengals, and Minnesota Vikings.
His most notable success came in Minnesota, where he helped lead the Vikings to multiple playoff appearances and a trip to the NFC Championship Game in 2017.
While Zimmer’s departure from the Cowboys is a significant moment, it is not a surprise given his recent struggles to land a prominent role in the league.
Despite his vast experience and impressive resume, Zimmer’s last coaching stint with the Vikings ended in 2021, when the team opted to part ways with him after eight seasons.
As Zimmer prepares to leave the game, his legacy in the NFL is solidified as one of the most respected defensive minds in the history of the league.
His impact on the Cowboys, Vikings, and other teams he worked with will not be forgotten as he steps away from coaching and into a well-deserved retirement.