The Dallas Cowboys are close to finalizing their coaching staff for 2025. The new Cowboys, led by Brian Schottenheimer, have filled their offensive coordinator vacancy by hiring former Arizona Cardinals offensive line coach Klayton Adams last week.
After two successful interviews, the Cowboys and Adams agreed to make Adams the 15th offensive coordinator in franchise history.
Schottenheimer will take on the role of lead play-caller, while Adams will play a crucial part in the offense, particularly in the running game. Since beginning his coaching career in 2010, Adams has primarily worked as an offensive line coach, but he has also gained valuable experience working with several talented groups of running backs.
Most recently, Adams played a crucial role in propelling Cardinals running back James Conner over the last two years with the Cardinals. Conner has proven to be one of the most effective running backs in the NFL during his time in Arizona. He did not eclipse 1,000 yards rushing until his last two seasons with the Cardinals.
Conner was the team's workhorse, ranking among the top 10 in carries during Adams' time as the offensive line coach. Conner's powerful running style mirrors the skill set of a player who will be mentioned later, which is something to keep in mind as the NFL Draft approaches.
The real catalyst for Conner's success was the run-blocking schemes that Adams implemented. While Conner was not a superstar by any means, Adams effectively protected him through these blocking strategies. Adams' innovative techniques and his ability to control the line of scrimmage demonstrate that he will add an extra dimension to the Cowboys' offense.
Adams' experience clearly indicates Schottenheimer's goals for 2025, specifically focusing on improving the run game. Last season, Dallas ranked among the bottom five teams in all major rushing categories. With the addition of Adams, there is potential for significant improvement in this area.
Cowboys draft strategy is clear after the hiring Klayton Adams as offensive coordinator
If someone wants to enhance their running back roster, the 2025 NFL Draft presents an excellent opportunity. This draft class features standout talents highlighted by Doak Walker Award winner Ashton Jeanty. However, there isn’t a significant gap between him and the running backs ranked behind him, which shows this class is stacked.
There is a good chance that 10 running backs will be drafted in the first three rounds. Close behind Jeanty are Omarion Hampton, Quinshon Judkins, Kaleb Johnson, and others. Each player would bring great tools for Adams to work with.
RELATED: Cowboys 2025 NFL Draft: North Carolina RB Omarion Hampton Scouting Report
Jeanty is considered the top prospect, but due to the need for running backs among teams picking ahead of the Cowboys, he may be gone by the time Schottenheimer makes his first draft choice as head coach. If Jeanty is not available for the Cowboys at pick No. 12, they can still enhance their running game by picking an offensive line in the first round and then taking a RB in the second.
Texas tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. and Ohio State's Josh Simmons both showcase exceptional versatility, providing Adams with valuable options. Their ability to protect in all game phases will enable Adams to utilize them in various schemes, ensuring his success.
The Cowboys have also recently hired Derrick Foster as their running backs coach. This move has the potential for positive outcomes over time. Foster recently coached Alvin Kamara in New Orleans, helping him achieve a career-high in rushing yards this season. Additionally, from 2021 to 2023, he played a significant role in Austin Eckler’s success, contributing to his ranking among the league's best running backs with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Whether Dallas selects Jeanty in Round 1 and secures a quality tackle or guard in Round 2 or chooses a player like Banks Jr. in Round 1 and then picks Hampton or Johnson in Round 2, their strategy for 2025 is evident: Schottenheimer and Adams are focused on enhancing the run game this year.
Ultimately, Adams may not have been the most attractive name in the race for the Cowboys' offensive coordinator, but he could be the right guy for the direction Schottenheimer wants to pursue in year one.
