The Dallas Cowboys are on the hunt for a new head coach following their decision to part ways with Mike McCarthy. After a lengthy deliberation on whether to retain McCarthy, the Cowboys find themselves at a disadvantage, lagging behind other teams in the coaching cycle.
News of McCarthy’s departure broke on Monday after he and the Cowboys could not reach an agreement on a potential contract extension. This decision has left the franchise in a race against time to secure a new leader for their team.
Challenges Ahead in the Hiring Process
The Cowboys’ front office took a significant step on the same day by participating in mandatory inclusive hiring training. This training, which was introduced in 2022, is a crucial part of the NFL’s multi-step hiring process. Anyone involved in hiring must complete this training if they haven’t done so in the last two seasons. With this training now behind them, the Cowboys are finally free to begin their search for a head coach for the first time in five years.
However, the timing is less than ideal. Other teams have been actively engaged in the hiring process for weeks, which puts Dallas at a disadvantage. Despite this setback, the Cowboys already have some potential candidates in mind.
Top Candidates for the Job
One name that stands out is Bill Belichick, who could be at the top of Dallas’ list. Although he has recently taken a college coaching job at North Carolina, reports have surfaced indicating that he would be interested in the Cowboys position if it became available. Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner, has a solid relationship with Belichick, which could work in their favor.
However, there is a significant hurdle to overcome: a $10 million buyout clause in Belichick’s contract with North Carolina. While this financial obstacle may not deter an owner like Jones, it’s worth noting that the buyout drops to just $1 million after June 1. This timeline could play a crucial role in whether the Cowboys pursue Belichick or look elsewhere.
Other Notable Candidates
If Jones decides to explore other options, he might have to wait a few weeks. Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, is considered one of the top coaching prospects available this year. Johnson has already completed interviews with several teams, including the Patriots, Jaguars, Raiders, and Bears, but he cannot conduct any more interviews until the Lions’ season concludes.
This same restriction applies to any coach currently on the Kansas City Chiefs’ staff. Thus, the Cowboys may need to look at candidates who are not currently involved in the playoffs if they want to expedite their hiring process.
Potential Interview Timelines
For coaches whose teams have advanced in the playoffs, the Cowboys will have to wait until three days after their victory to conduct interviews. These interviews must be completed by Sunday, January 19. This timeline adds another layer of complexity to the Cowboys’ coaching search, as they must navigate the playoff schedules of potential candidates.
As it stands, Kellen Moore, the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, is currently the favorite for the job, according to Betfair. Following him is Deion Sanders, who has also emerged as a strong candidate. Both of these individuals bring unique qualities and experiences that could greatly benefit the Cowboys.
What Lies Ahead for the Cowboys?
The Cowboys’ search for a new head coach is not just about filling a vacancy; it’s about finding the right fit for a franchise with a storied history and high expectations. The pressure is on Jerry Jones and his team to make a decision that will resonate with fans and players alike.
The upcoming weeks will be critical as the Cowboys navigate their options. Will they pursue a big name like Belichick, or will they opt for fresh talent like Johnson or Moore? The choices they make will shape the future of the franchise and determine their path moving forward.
In the world of the NFL, coaching changes can lead to significant shifts in team dynamics, performance, and fan engagement. As the Cowboys embark on this journey, fans are left wondering: Who will be the next leader to guide this iconic franchise back to glory? The answer lies just around the corner, and the excitement is palpable.
