In the rollercoaster ride that has been the Dallas Cowboys’ last few seasons, it’s a tale of déjà vu with Mike McCarthy. Guiding the team to a commendable 12-5 record from 2021 to 2023 might look good on paper, but the lack of playoff progression became a thorn too big to ignore. Despite McCarthy’s knack for reaching playoff berths, three consecutive postseason campaigns saw the Cowboys bowing out after winning only a single playoff game each year. Eventually, a 7-10 season in 2024 rang the bells for change.
Enter the discussion about potential replacements, and one name that deserves more spotlight is Todd Monken, the Ravens’ offensive coordinator.
Why the Cowboys Bid Farewell to McCarthy
McCarthy’s tenure with the Cowboys is characterized by regular-season success that just didn’t translate into deep playoff runs. While the Cowboys roster featured talents like CeeDee Lamb at his peak and a quarterback in Dak Prescott capable of leading a formidable offense, the results were stagnant.
In 2024, neither offense nor defense held up their end of the bargain. Offensively, the Cowboys sputtered to a 21st place ranking, managing just 20.6 points per game. Defensively, things were even more dire, allowing opponents to score at will – second most in the league, with 27.5 points per game. When the scoreboard reflects such struggles on both sides, a shake-up becomes inevitable.
Why Todd Monken Should Be in the Mix
Turning the page, the Cowboys are on the hunt for a leader who can breathe new life into their offensive strategy. Todd Monken’s influence in Baltimore serves as a testament to his prowess. The Ravens’ success isn’t just about the star-studded cast of Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, and Zay Flowers. Monken has refined the raw talent into a cohesive and formidable unit. His ability to elevate players like Rashod Bateman, who emerged from a lukewarm track record to a standout performer this season, underscores Monken’s potential impact.
Monken’s approach is not simply about leveraging elite talent, but about crafting game plans that allow each player to maximize their strengths. This knack for strategic development is precisely why his name should be included in conversations about the Cowboys’ next head coach.
Looking Towards 2025
As the Cowboys chart their course for the coming years, drafting Ashton Jeanty could be a strategic move inspired by Monken’s playbook. Jeanty offers a skill set reminiscent of Derrick Henry and could, under Monken’s guidance, become a breakout star from day one. Pairing Jeanty’s dynamic potential with Prescott’s leadership under center could be the perfect recipe for a revitalized offense.
Envisioning the 2025 playoff picture, the Cowboys have an arsenal ready to challenge opponents on the biggest stage. With Monken potentially leading the charge, complemented by strategic roster moves and smart drafting, Dallas fans might finally witness a postseason run that breaks the mold of recent frustrations and propels the Cowboys deep into playoff territory.
