Cowboys’ Potential OC Hire Klayton Adams Could Revolutionize the Run Game
The Dallas Cowboys are on the verge of making a game-changing move in their search for an offensive coordinator, with the team reportedly interviewing Arizona Cardinals offensive line coach Klayton Adams for a second time.
Adams, who is quickly becoming the favorite for the role, could bring the fresh approach the Cowboys need, especially in terms of their running game, which has felt stale in recent years.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who will be calling plays for the Cowboys, has made it clear that the run game will be a top priority. While Schottenheimer’s offensive philosophy is about blending influences from around the league, his approach isn’t just about copying what’s trendy but making it his own. He has expressed his openness to learning from successful teams, particularly noting his experience in Seattle and the influence of Pete Carroll.
However, to bring this vision to life, Schottenheimer needs an offensive coordinator who can complement his style and offer the necessary expertise in the trenches.
Klayton Adams could be that complement. The 41-year-old has been an integral part of the Cardinals’ offensive line, where he helped develop one of the most efficient and explosive running games in the NFL. Under Adams, the Cardinals’ offense was known for its variety, especially in the way they used pulling blockers and executed counter runs.
This approach was a key factor in Arizona’s success and is something that could be a perfect fit for a Cowboys team whose ground game has lacked creativity and consistency in recent seasons.
The Cowboys’ rushing attack has largely been reliant on inside zone plays, a scheme that has grown predictable and easy to defend. Under former offensive coordinator Scott Linehan, and even in more recent years, the team has not consistently utilized the full potential of its offensive line, especially in terms of pulling linemen or running counters. In fact, Dallas ranked 22nd in pulling blockers and 30th in counter attempts last season—both marks are far from impressive.
In contrast, Adams’ Cardinals ran the second-most counter plays in the NFL, and did so from various personnel groupings and formations. This diversity in the running game could breathe new life into a Cowboys offense that has long relied on a stale approach.
Adding Adams to the staff could be just what the Cowboys need to reinvigorate their rushing attack and help elevate their offensive identity under Schottenheimer’s leadership.
The Cowboys’ running game has often felt one-dimensional, but with Adams’ potential hire, there’s hope that the team could become more dynamic and unpredictable, making them a much tougher offense to stop in 2025.