Scott Tolzien is making headlines for both stepping up and stepping out within the Dallas Cowboys organization. After being promoted to quarterbacks coach earlier this offseason, replacing Doug Nussmeier, Tolzien is now leaving the team as his contract has expired, according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport.
Tolzien’s promotion seemed like a natural step. A former NFL quarterback who played under Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy in Green Bay from 2013 to 2016, Tolzien brought first-hand experience to his role as an offensive assistant.
Dak Prescott reflects on NFL career and future with the Dallas Cowboys
Since joining the Cowboys in 2020, he primarily worked with quarterbacks, gaining respect for his insight and connection with the players. Moving into the quarterbacks coach role in 2023 felt like the logical progression in his coaching career.
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As a player, Tolzien’s time in the NFL saw him start two games for the Packers and two for the Colts, giving him a unique understanding of the position’s challenges. His playing days were rooted in his standout college career at Wisconsin, where he first made a name for himself as a cerebral, poised leader on the field.
Tolzien’s departure leaves Dak’s future uncertain
But now, Tolzien’s chapter with the Cowboys comes to an end. While his next destination hasn’t been revealed, his departure marks another shift in what has been an offseason of significant coaching turnover for Dallas. The Cowboys made eight staff changes following the 2022 season, letting go of high-profile names like offensive coordinator Kellen Moore and offensive line coach Joe Philbin.
The Cowboys have leaned into promoting from within, a strategy exemplified not just by Tolzien’s rise but also by the return of Scott McCurley to his original role as linebackers coach. McCurley, who has a long history with McCarthy from their 13 seasons together in Green Bay, has been a steady presence since joining Dallas in 2020.
While the Cowboys have brought in new talent like offensive line coach Mike Solari, they now face the challenge of replacing Tolzien. His departure leaves a gap in the quarterback room, a vital part of the coaching staff given the team’s investment in quarterback Dak Prescott.
Whether Tolzien pursues another NFL opportunity or returns to the college ranks, one thing is clear-his trajectory as a coach mirrors his reputation as a player: thoughtful, determined, and always focused on making an impact. As the Cowboys continue to retool their staff, fans will keep an eye on where Tolzien lands next.
