Jerry Jones was surprised by Mike McCarthy leaving the negotiating table. Why did he?
The story in Dallas has taken another turn in that we now understand Mike McCarthy chose to walk away from the negotiating table, a curious decision.
With details suggesting Mike McCarthy discontinued negotiations, it appears the now former Dallas Cowboys coach had other plans for his future, which clearly raises questions as to what he intends to do next. Time will tell.
Jerry Jones surprised by Mike McCarthy’s decision
According to reports, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones was surprised by head coach Mike McCarthy’s decision to walk away from the franchise. As per NFL Network’s Jane Slater on Tuesday, Jones expected to continue discussions on a contract with McCarthy when the veteran head coach decided to walk away. Needless to say, the move caught the Cowboys’ owner off guard.
It is understood that the topic arose while Slater was discussing the possibility of Jason Witten taking the job. “It’s been my understanding that Jerry has talked to Jason in recent weeks and I do believe that he was part of a plan that Jerry initially had when he was going to bring back Mike McCarthy,” Slater said. “I think the plan there was to make him an heir apparent of sorts. Mike McCarthy sort of surprised him by deciding he wanted to end these conversations, pursue something else.”
A lot to unpack here. Been on the phone non stop here is what I’ve gathered from Deion to Witt to Kellen. Jerry is currently on a solo mission. No official interviews or calls even placed to some. Here is what I have gathered for you. #CowboysHCSearch pic.twitter.com/9OzVVwy7Cz
— Jane Slater (@SlaterNFL) January 15, 2025
For context, this most recent campaign was McCarthy’s fifth season as the Cowboys’ head coach during which time he notched a record of 49-35 (.583). For a team with the stature of the Cowboys, it shouldn’t be hard to see that’s simply not good enough, a notion that was further compounded by McCarthy’s 7-10 record in 2024 and his overall failure to guide the team past the Divisional Round of the playoffs during his tenure. Ultimately, while there is no official word from McCarthy on his decision to cut off the conversation with Jones, the fact that he’s set to interview with the Chicago Bears on Wednesday does suggest he wanted to pursue other options.
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