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Schottenheimer on Pete's Viral Speech

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When Brian Schottenheimer asked undrafted rookie offensive lineman Shiyazh Pete to address the Dallas Cowboys after their victory over the Arizona Cardinals, he had no idea the moment would go viral. "It was very raw," Schottenheimer said. "It was very authentic." This historic speech came as Pete became the first member of the Navajo Nation to join an NFL team.

Playing in Arizona, home to a sizable Native American population, Pete received overwhelming support from fans in the stadium. The reaction prompted Schottenheimer to invite him to speak postgame. "I am very fortunate to be amongst you and to play in the same field," Pete told the team via video released by the Cowboys. He highlighted how the game transformed strangers into brothers through their shared commitment.

The locker room erupted with a standing ovation, mirroring the crowd's enthusiasm. Pete thanked fans for celebrating his name and wearing his jersey, noting he saw numerous Navajo Nation flags and even a Salish Nation flag. Despite playing only six snaps in the fourth quarter and being a long shot to make the roster, the experience left a lasting impact on him.

Schottenheimer recalled a driver telling him Pete was the most incredible human being he had ever met. "He captured the moment," Schottenheimer said, praising Pete’s clean language and ability to unite the team.