Aikman Says Shanahan Would Be His First Coaching Call

Troy Aikman said Kyle Shanahan would be his first choice for head coach if he joined an NFL front office with the power to hire one. The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback made the comments on a Dallas radio show on November 12, amid speculation about a possible future role with the team.

Aikman said he would call the San Francisco 49ers to ask what it would take to hire Shanahan. He praised the coach’s ability and said coaching can affect an organization’s performance.

Aikman currently works for ESPN, providing analysis during its Monday night broadcasts. He has been involved in contract discussions with the network, and he is expected by some to leave that job after this season.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said last month that he could bring Aikman into a significant role if Aikman wanted one. Shanahan remains under contract with San Francisco, and there is no indication the team or coach plans to separate.