Owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys, Jerry Jones, recently parted ways with former head coach Mike McCarthy, sparking speculation about potential replacements. Among the names being discussed is Deion Sanders, the current head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes. Reports indicate that Sanders has made it clear he would be highly interested in the role if offered.
NFL insider Ed Werder shared that Sanders "would almost certainly accept" the head coaching position with the Cowboys, should it be extended to him. This comes after a phone conversation between Sanders and Jones, where they discussed the coaching vacancy. The buzz around Sanders’ candidacy is growing, with those close to him reportedly encouraging him to pursue the opportunity in Dallas.
Sanders’ Connection to the Cowboys
Deion Sanders is not just any candidate; he is a Cowboys icon. Having spent five seasons with the team in the 1990s, he played a pivotal role in their last Super Bowl victory 30 years ago. During his time in Dallas, Sanders earned four All-Pro selections, solidifying his legacy as one of the franchise’s greats. His history with the team adds a layer of intrigue to the potential hiring.
In a recent interview with ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Sanders expressed his excitement about the possibility of coaching the Cowboys. "To hear from Jerry Jones is truly delightful, and it’s intriguing," he said, highlighting the significance of the conversation. He further elaborated, "I love Jerry and believe in Jerry. After you hang up, and process it, and think about it, it’s intriguing."
Balancing Ambitions
However, Sanders is not quick to dismiss his current role at Colorado. He has emphasized his commitment to the Buffaloes, stating, "But I love Boulder and everything there is about our team, the coaches, our student body, and the community." This sentiment reflects his dedication to building a successful program at the college level, even as the allure of the NFL beckons.
The potential for Sanders to leave Colorado comes at a pivotal moment, as his son, quarterback Shedeur Sanders, is projected to be one of the top selections in the upcoming NFL Draft. Deion has previously mentioned that he would be open to coaching in the NFL if it meant being paired with both Shedeur and his other son, Shilo. Yet, the logistics of such a package deal would be complicated, as the Cowboys would need to hire Sanders and then trade up from their current No. 12 overall pick to draft Shedeur.
Current Coaching Landscape
While Sanders is a strong candidate, the Cowboys are exploring multiple options for their head coaching vacancy. Reports indicate that they are considering interviewing former head coaches Robert Saleh and Leslie Frazier. Additionally, Dallas has reached out to Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who is set to have a virtual interview with the team before the Eagles’ Divisional Round playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams.
Moore, who played as a quarterback for the Cowboys for three seasons before retiring in 2018, has since made a name for himself as an offensive coordinator. His familiarity with the franchise could make him an appealing choice for Jones and the Cowboys’ front office.
Encouragement from Peers
The buzz surrounding Sanders is not just limited to his past accomplishments. His current success at Colorado has garnered attention and respect across the league. People within his circle are reportedly encouraging him to take the leap into the NFL, emphasizing that this could be a golden opportunity for him to return to the franchise where he made his mark as a player.
As the coaching carousel spins, the Cowboys’ decision will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Will they opt for a familiar face in Sanders, or will they choose a different direction? The excitement surrounding this potential hiring speaks volumes about Sanders’ impact in the football world, both as a player and as a coach.
The Future of the Cowboys
As the Cowboys navigate this crucial decision, the future of the franchise hangs in the balance. The right head coach could be the key to unlocking the team’s potential and returning them to championship glory. With a storied history and a passionate fanbase, the Cowboys are always in the spotlight, and the choice of head coach will undoubtedly shape the team’s trajectory for years to come.
In the end, whether or not Deion Sanders takes the helm in Dallas remains to be seen. However, the conversation alone highlights the excitement and possibilities that lie ahead for both Sanders and the Cowboys. As the NFL continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the passion for the game and the desire to win remain as strong as ever. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this unfolding story.
