The 2024 Dallas Cowboys season ended on a sour note Sunday with a 26-14 loss to the Washington Commanders at AT&T Stadium, cementing a 7-10 record and missing the playoffs entirely.
With heavy preseason expectations dashed, questions have arisen about head coach Mike McCarthy’s future.
Despite the uncertainty, McCarthy remains steadfast in his desire to continue leading the team.
Speaking to reporters, the veteran coach emphasized his commitment to the Cowboys organization and his belief in the program’s potential.
“Absolutely. I have a lot invested here, and the Cowboys have a lot invested in me,” McCarthy said of his desire to continue in his role.
“There’s a personal side to all these decisions. They all point the right direction. I think anytime you invest your time, energy, your belief, the connection you have, the relationships that are in place here, the understanding of what the organization can do and is willing to do. Those are all positive attributes that you take into account.”
McCarthy, who previously led the Green Bay Packers to a Super Bowl title, touted his experience and philosophy as a “builder” of teams, despite the Cowboys’ struggles.
“I’m a builder. I believe in building programs. I believe in developing young players. So, at the end of day, it is about winning and you have to have those components in place to get this thing where it needs to be. I think we have a very good foundation here,” he said.
The Cowboys have seen regular-season success under McCarthy, posting three consecutive 12-5 seasons before this year’s decline.
However, a 1-3 playoff record, including disappointing early exits, has cast a shadow over his tenure.
“I have a lot of confidence in myself as a head coach,” McCarthy continued. “I’m definitely in position with Jerry to move the program forward. There’s no question about that in my mind. That’s why these conversations need to happen here in the near future.”
McCarthy’s contract is set to expire on January 14, leaving the Cowboys’ ownership with a decision to make.
After Sunday’s game, owner Jerry Jones addressed the speculation but refrained from committing to McCarthy for next season.
Interestingly, Jones admitted that he’d be fine with McCarthy interviewing with other teams. Unsurprisingly, Jones also made it clear that he’s not going to be relinquishing any personal power within the organization.
While Jones weighs the decision, McCarthy remains confident in his ability to guide the team back to success, leaning on his championship pedigree.
“I don’t like to talk about myself that way, but I’ll just be clear: I’m a winner. I know how to win. I’ve won a championship. I won a championship in this building, and that’s who I am. We’ll see where it goes,” McCarthy confidently stated.
Earlier this season, star linebacker Micah Parsons endorsed McCarthy’s return, citing the team’s injury challenges and urging continuity.
“I would like a fair shot with everyone back – players, coaches – because the injuries kind of struck of what this season could really be,” Parsons said.
“The injuries have been terrible. And, you know, it really sucks. Seeing Zack [Martin], D-Law [DeMarcus Lawrence] not having the year I know he planned to have. He had such a great start. It really sucks.”
Since taking over in 2020, McCarthy has compiled a regular-season record of 49-34, but the lack of postseason success remains a sticking point.
The Cowboys are officially in offseason mode, and their path forward, with or without McCarthy, will shape the team’s future.
Interestingly, the Chicago Bears have requested to interview McCarthy for their head coach opening.
At the end of the day, what do you think ends up happening with Big Mike???
