Jason Witten’s Coaching Journey: From Cowboys Legend to Sooner Tight Ends Coach and Potential NFL Return

Dallas Cowboys fans have a lot to be excited about. Jason Witten, one of the franchise’s most iconic players, is taking bold steps in his coaching career that could eventually bring him back to the NFL—and specifically, to the sidelines in Arlington. The 11-time Pro Bowler and Cowboys legend has officially accepted a position as tight ends coach at the University of Oklahoma, joining head coach Brent Venables’ staff. This move, first reported by CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, replaces Joe Jon Finley and positions Witten on a trajectory that could ultimately lead him back to Dallas.

For fans and analysts alike, Witten’s transition from player to coach has been closely watched. His track record at the high school level, combined with his NFL experience, makes him a unique candidate for future coaching opportunities, including potential NFL head coaching roles.

A High School Coaching Success Story

Before joining the Sooners, Witten served as head coach of the Liberty Christian Warriors in Argyle, Texas, with remarkable results. Under his leadership, the team won two state championships: one at the Division II level and another at Division I in their inaugural season in 2024. Achieving this feat at the highest classification highlights Witten’s ability to build winning programs from the ground up, even outside the college or professional ranks.

Witten’s success in Argyle demonstrated more than just tactical knowledge—it showcased his leadership, player development skills, and ability to inspire young athletes. These qualities are critical for any coach aiming to ascend through the ranks of college football and potentially into the NFL.

College Level: A Strategic Step Forward

Joining Oklahoma represents Witten’s first foray into college coaching, and it’s a calculated step. According to Tom Green of Sooners Illustrated, Witten’s hiring is a major coup for the program, particularly for recruiting purposes. “He was an 11-time Pro Bowl selection and a four-time All-Pro tight end. What he lacks in experience at the college level, Witten makes up for in experience at the position,” Green wrote.

Witten’s deep roots in Texas—especially in the talent-rich Dallas-Fort Worth metro area—make him an invaluable asset for Oklahoma’s recruiting efforts. The Denton region, part of North Texas, produces elite football talent annually, and Witten’s connections there could help the Sooners secure top recruits in the increasingly competitive NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) and revenue-sharing era.

NFL Pedigree on the Oklahoma Staff

Witten’s addition isn’t the only move Oklahoma has made to bring NFL experience to Norman. His former Cowboys teammate DeMarco Murray serves as the team’s running backs coach, creating a coaching staff steeped in professional experience. This duo of ex-Dallas stars adds credibility to the program and could make the Sooners more attractive to elite recruits looking for guidance from coaches who have excelled at the highest level.

The combination of Witten and Murray also signals a shift in college hiring philosophy—bringing in former NFL stars with proven track records in hopes of accelerating program success. While neither has extensive college coaching experience, their professional insights, credibility, and player development skills could give Oklahoma a competitive edge in both games and recruiting.

Long-Term Aspirations: Witten’s Path Back to the NFL

For Witten, the Oklahoma role is more than a resume-building step; it’s a strategic move toward a potential return to the NFL. Just a year ago, Witten’s name surfaced in connection with the Cowboys’ head coaching vacancy, though he wasn’t interviewed. In a statement from February 12, he confirmed his ambitions: “Of course it’s a long-term goal of mine one day to get back (to the NFL) when the right opportunity comes,” he said (h/t @calvinwatkins).

Witten’s journey from position coach to NFL head coach is ambitious but not unprecedented. Starting at Oklahoma allows him to:

1. Develop his coaching acumen in a competitive college environment.

2. Gain experience working with elite talent in a high-pressure, high-visibility program.

3. Potentially ascend to offensive coordinator within a season or two, leveraging both his NFL expertise and the program’s resources.

With sustained success, Witten could be in line for a Power 4 head coaching role or even make a direct leap to the NFL. His unique combination of playing experience, leadership skills, and Texas connections makes him a rare candidate for teams looking for a proven football mind with deep regional ties.

Navigating the Coaching Ladder

Success in Norman is only the first step. For Witten to land a top-tier coaching job, several factors must align:

• Team performance: If Brent Venables struggles, internal restructuring could open doors for Witten to take on greater responsibility.

• Building a track record: Witten may need two to three years of measurable success at the college level to be considered for NFL positions.

• Networking and visibility: His ties to Texas and NFL veterans like Murray give him credibility, but his ability to translate NFL experience to college systems will be scrutinized.

Cowboys Connection: A Perfect Storm?

Witten’s potential return to the Dallas Cowboys would be a storybook scenario. Owner and general manager Jerry Jones has a long history of promoting familiar faces. Just last year, Jones elevated Brian Schottenheimer from offensive coordinator to head coach, a move that sparked mixed reactions but has yet to collapse entirely.

If the Cowboys falter in the coming seasons, Jones could look to Witten as a natural replacement—a homegrown hero with unparalleled loyalty to the star. Imagine a scenario where Witten returns as head coach while DeMarco Murray joins as offensive coordinator. The combination of nostalgia, NFL pedigree, and coaching experience could energize both the team and the fanbase.

Recruiting and Development: The X-Factor

Witten’s value isn’t limited to wins on the field. His ties to Texas high schools, understanding of player development, and experience in the NFL make him a unique recruiter. In the NIL era, top recruits often choose programs where they feel confident about both personal development and exposure. Witten offers both, which could significantly strengthen Oklahoma’s talent pipeline.

Moreover, Witten’s expertise at the tight end position is invaluable. Tight ends are increasingly pivotal in modern football schemes, serving as both blockers and receiving threats. A coach of Witten’s caliber could elevate Oklahoma’s offensive versatility while also preparing players for potential NFL careers.

Looking Ahead: One Coaching Rung at a Time

For now, Witten’s immediate focus is developing Oklahoma’s tight ends and contributing to a successful season in Norman. However, the whispers of a Dallas homecoming are growing louder. With each passing year of coaching experience, Witten inches closer to realizing his long-term goal of returning to the NFL.

Whether he ascends to offensive coordinator, secures a head coaching role at a major college program, or eventually joins the Cowboys’ staff, Witten’s path is being carefully mapped out. It’s not just speculation—it’s a calculated climb up the coaching ladder, one strategic move at a time.

Conclusion

Jason Witten’s transition from Cowboys legend to Oklahoma tight ends coach represents a fascinating blend of strategy, ambition, and legacy. His high school coaching success, NFL pedigree, and Texas roots position him as a top-tier candidate for future coaching opportunities. While his long-term goal remains a return to the NFL, Witten’s current role at Oklahoma is a crucial stepping stone in that journey.

For Cowboys fans and college football observers alike, Witten’s career trajectory is a story to watch closely. From Argyle to Norman and potentially back to Arlington, Jason Witten is proving that his impact on the game extends far beyond the field.