Former Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy and team owner Jerry Jones have decided to part ways after five seasons together. McCarthy's contract had expired, and the team finished the season with a 7-10 record, missing the playoffs after a three-year streak of postseason appearances.
Following the decision to move on from McCarthy, Jones announced that the coaching search would begin. Two potential replacements being considered are former Cowboys players Deion Sanders and Jason Witten.
Sanders, a Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback, had a successful tenure with the Cowboys, helping them win their third Super Bowl in a four-year span. He recently completed his second season as the head coach at Colorado and has reportedly discussed the Dallas coaching opening with Jones.
Witten, the Cowboys' all-time leader in various categories as a tight end, has limited coaching experience, primarily at the high school level. Despite this, his success as a player and his recent state championship win as a high school coach make him an intriguing candidate.
Another potential candidate is Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, who has a strong connection with Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. Moore was instrumental in the success of the Cowboys' offense during his time as the team's play-caller.
Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, a former Cowboys player, is also being considered for the coaching position. Formal interviews with Moore and Glenn would likely take place after their respective teams' seasons conclude.
Jones has a history of hiring both first-time NFL head coaches and experienced candidates. His next hire will be his ninth since purchasing the team in 1989, with notable past hires including Jimmy Johnson, Bill Parcells, and Jason Garrett.
As the coaching search continues, the Cowboys aim to find the right leader to guide the team back to postseason success and potentially a Super Bowl appearance.
