Cowboys
These are the candidates to replace Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy
As the career of Dallas Cowboys head coach comes to an end after this disaster of a season, here are some options to replace him.
The Dallas Cowboys' season, at 3-6, was already over before Thanksgiving. Even before this, it was pretty much a given that head coach Mike McCarthy would not be returning to the team after this season. He’s was in the final year of his contract and after three consecutive 12-5 regular seasons – and a 1-3 record in the postseason in his four years in Dallas – McCarthy was already on his way out. Something that we found out as the contract reached its final hours.
With Jerry Jones now looking for who comes next, we take a look at some of the potential candidates.
Five potential candidates for Cowboys head coach job
Deion Sanders
Deion Sanders is widely considered one of the best athletes of all time, having played in both MLB and the NFL. He played for the Cowboys from 1995 to 2000 and in his first season with them, they won a Super Bowl. He understands the Cowboys organization and his experience could be just what they need.
He’s currently coaching for the Colorado Buffaloes, and spent three seasons coaching at Jackson State before that. Both teams had successful seasons under his leadership. Colorado is at 7-2 and second in the Big 12 this season after their 41-27 win over Texas Tech on Saturday.
Aaron Glenn
Aaron Glenn is currently the defensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions and, in his three and a half year there, has completely transformed the defense into one of the best in the league at stopping the run. That‘s something the Cowboys are in desperate need of at the moment as one of the worst rushing defenses in the league. Glenn interviewed for several head coaching positions last season but didn’t land any. Considering the Lions are on track to make a Super Bowl run at 8-1, he may be a much hotter candidate next season, and the Cowboys will be in the market.
Kliff Kingsbury
Kingsbury is currently working for the enemy as the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders. He didn‘t have a lot of success as the head coach for the Arizona Cardinals from 2019-2022, but he was indeed dealing with a difficult roster. He is seeing quite a bit more success helping lead rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. His young and creative offensive mind could be a good fit in Dallas.
Other potential options for Jerry Jones
Ultimately, the Cowboys have a range of options, each with distinct pros and cons, and the chosen one may already be known in the back rooms. As well as those above, other names have been speculated on.
Proven winners like Doug Pederson and Frank Reich bring playoff pedigrees but come with recent struggles, while offensive minds like Kellen Moore and Matt Nagy offer fresh ideas but lack the ideal experience or appeal. Nostalgic picks like Jason Witten might energize fans but feel more symbolic than strategic.
Whoever lands the role, they’ll need to embrace the spotlight, manage Jones’ expectations, and deliver results for a franchise that is always under scrutiny.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.