Cowboys' Brian Schottenheimer Reveals Personal Reason He Doesn't Wear Sunglasses

The Dallas Cowboys head coach says his father's advice is behind his decision to not wear sunglasses on the sideline.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:18pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football coach on the sideline, with his face and body broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape, conveying the personal and emotional connection he seeks to have with his players.Schottenheimer's personal approach to connecting with players is reflected in his decision to forgo sunglasses on the sideline.San Diego Today

Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer revealed that he doesn't wear sunglasses on the sideline because his father, legendary NFL coach Marty Schottenheimer, told him that coaches shouldn't wear them so players can see their eyes. Schottenheimer believes this helps him build stronger connections with his players.

Why it matters

Schottenheimer's decision to forego sunglasses is part of his broader effort to change the culture in Dallas and create a more family-like atmosphere on the team. As a first-time NFL head coach, these small personal touches can go a long way in establishing trust and rapport with players.

The details

During a media session at the NFL Annual League Meeting in Phoenix, Schottenheimer explained that his father Marty, who had a long coaching career in the NFL, advised him that coaches shouldn't wear sunglasses because players need to see their eyes. Schottenheimer believes this helps him connect with his players on a more personal level.

  • Schottenheimer met with the media on Monday, March 30, 2026 at the NFL Annual League Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona.

The players

Brian Schottenheimer

The head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, who is entering his second season in that role after previously serving as an offensive coordinator in the NFL.

Marty Schottenheimer

Brian Schottenheimer's father, who was a longtime NFL head coach with the Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs, Washington Redskins, and San Diego Chargers.

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What they’re saying

“Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer said he doesn't wear sunglasses, one of the few coaches not to in the sun, because his dad told him coaches shouldn't wear them because the players need to see their eyes.”

— Clarence Hill, Reporter

What’s next

Schottenheimer will look to build on the progress he made in his first season as Cowboys head coach, as the team aims to return to the playoffs in 2026 after missing out the past two years.

The takeaway

Schottenheimer's decision to not wear sunglasses on the sideline is a small but meaningful gesture that reflects his desire to connect with his players on a personal level and change the culture in Dallas. This type of leadership approach could pay dividends as he looks to guide the Cowboys back to the postseason.