The Dallas Cowboys and Head Coach Mike McCarthy have officially gone their separate ways after posting a respectable 49-35 record, though playoff success eluded them with a 1-3 showing. Jerry Jones, the team’s owner, appears to be on the lookout for a fresh face, sending the signal that a change was imminent. With several intriguing candidates available, Jones might just have his eye on someone special.
Let’s dive into the four most likely contenders for the Cowboys head coaching role:
Deion Sanders
When the Cowboys talk head coaching, Deion Sanders is a name that must be in the conversation. Though he seems content at Colorado, Sanders has publicly stated he’d consider an NFL coaching role, but only if it involves coaching his sons, Shedeur and Shilo Sanders. “You know what? The only way I would consider it (NFL) is to coach my sons,” Deion said.
The prospect of Sanders returning to the Cowboys, where his play electrified fans, is tantalizing. From a business angle, his presence would be a major draw, and from a football angle, it presents an intriguing scenario. Adding Shedeur to potentially succeed Dak Prescott could offer a strategic move for the team, especially in addressing concerns over Prescott’s long-term role following his hefty contract.
Jon Gruden
Jon Gruden has kept himself in the public eye lately, with his engaging football content on platforms like Instagram and TikTok and his appearance on Barstool Sports. Fans can’t get enough of Gruden breaking down plays and sharing his NFL insights. Despite limited playoff success with the Las Vegas Raiders, Gruden brings a lively energy and a veteran presence that Dallas might find appealing.
Pete Carroll
Here’s a name with a winning pedigree—Super Bowl champion Pete Carroll. Carroll has already attracted interest from teams like the Chicago Bears and Las Vegas Raiders. Despite recent mixed results with the Seahawks, his consistent track record over 12 seasons speaks volumes. He would bring stability to Dallas while having the potential to harness the talents of stars like Micah Parsons and CeeDee Lamb. A Carroll hire would merge high-profile appeal with dependable results.
Mike Tomlin
A splashy move might involve the Cowboys giving up a draft pick for Mike Tomlin, should talks of a split arise between Tomlin and the Steelers. NFL insider Adam Schefter has hinted at possible discussions of Tomlin’s departure. With his varied quarterback situation in Pittsburgh, Tomlin might welcome a change, and a team with Dak Prescott could be enticing. While Prescott isn’t deemed elite by all, he’s a robust asset compared to what Tomlin has managed in recent years.
Other Possible Options
- Steve Sarkisian: Currently Texas Head Coach, Sarkisian has family ties to Jerry Jones, adding an intriguing angle to his candidacy.
- Kliff Kingsbury: The Washington Commanders Offensive Coordinator is coaching under former Cowboys DC Dan Quinn, providing a familiar connection to the Dallas organization.
As the search for McCarthy’s successor heats up, the Cowboys have some compelling options to consider, each bringing unique strengths and perspectives to America’s Team.
