One of the biggest assumptions during the last two months of discourse surrounding the Dallas Cowboys is that Mike McCarthy returning to be the head coach is centered around Jerry Jones’ willingness to bring him back to the fold. The narrative has been that after Jones decided to bring a lame-duck McCarthy back in 2024, it was to prove whether or not he was capable of leading the franchise to postseason success. After a floundering 3-5 start saw the loss of QB Dak Prescott for the season, Dallas fell to 3-7 before getting some momentum after effectively being eliminated from the playoff chase.
At that point, conversation turned towards league rumors the team’s competitive effort (read: the Cowboys remained a draw and conversation piece that made Jones money) could lead to Jones keeping McCarthy around. Only, it’s not solely on Jones. McCarthy’s contract expires on January 14. It’s a two-way street. Even if Jones wants McCarthy back, he can see what else is out there around the NFL where he might get a chance to coach another organization.
McCarthy is loved by his players, why wouldn’t another organization looking to solidify things want to move in that direction? It’s hard to envision him wanting to sign on to be the coach of the New York Jets for a couple reasons. One, Aaron Rodgers. Two, Woody Johnson might just be the most problematic owner in all of the NFL.
Other jobs that could open up like with the New York Giants or the Cincinnati Bengals are intriguing, but for now, here’s a handful of situations which could make sense for McCarthy to move on to.
5
Indianapolis Colts
A black Indianapolis Colts helmet sits on the turf Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024, during a game against the Detroit Lions at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
There is a huge question mark surrounding what will happen not just at the head coaching position with Shane Steichen, but also the GM role in Indy. If Jeff Ballard is out, there’s almost assuredly going to be a head coaching change, and if he stays it could be under the edict of getting a new coach. With Anthony Richardson failing to develop and having some leadership issues, McCarthy would make a strong hire here.
4
Las Vegas Raiders
Dec 26, 2020; Paradise, Nevada, USA; A general view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet outside of Allegiant Stadium before the game against the Miami Dolphins. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
While McCarthy is a Western PA guy through and through, after living in the Dallas circus for five years, there’s really no team culture that should be off the table. The life in Las Vegas is certainly different from anywhere else, but the idea of drafting a new quarterback and having someone like McCarthy to guide his early career should be enticing for any ownership group. If they move on from Antonio Pierce as many suspect, this could be a landing spot.
3
New England Patriots
Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Could Jerrod Mayo really be one and done? It’s not out of the question as the Patriots entire process has been an abject failure and Bill Belichick’s harsh words about the effort of the team after his departure may be ringing in Robert Kraft’s ears. The one thing that is known is that Drake Maye looks like the real deal and getting a veteran head coach with pedigree could be just what Kraft is looking for. Kraft would seem like a hands off owner compared to Jones, and for an organization that has won recently, and a lot, increasing the interest of someone like McCarthy.
2
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jan 28, 2018; Orlando, FL, USA; A view of the helmet of Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey (20) on the sidelines against the NFC in the 2018 NFL Pro Bowl at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
There seems to be a lack of direction under Shad Khan with the Jaguars enjoying a couple rare seasons of success under Doug Pederson only to regress to the norm in 2024. The club has paid, handsomely, quarterback Trevor Lawrence and there is likely going to be another offensive guru headed to the Sunshine State to try and straighten him out. Whether or not it’s a veteran or a hot shot is the question, but if Khan wants to stay on the proven history path, McCarthy would be on his short list if available.
1
Chicago Bears
Oct 14, 2018; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; A Chicago Bears helmet and gloves sit on the field prior to the game between the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports
This one seems way to brilliant of a match. The Bears love safe and tradition and after the Matt Eberflus debacle, turning to a former NFC North emporer makes a ton of sense. McCarthy knows how to coach for cold weather, and his ability to turn Dak Prescott into a MVP-caliber signal caller seems like the perfect type of relationship match for a young Caleb Williams.
