Mike McCarthy’s future as the Dallas Cowboys’ head coach appears uncertain, as the team struggles through a disappointing 3-6 season without quarterback Dak Prescott. McCarthy’s contract ends this season, echoing Jason Garrett’s “lame duck” years under Jerry Jones. While Garrett secured an extension in 2014 after a strong season, he didn’t receive one in 2019 after a lackluster finish.
Speculation is growing about McCarthy’s replacement in 2025. Jerry Jones has mentioned Jason Witten, who led Liberty Christian High School to a state title, though his lack of NFL coaching experience could be a concern.
Other potential candidates include Deion Sanders, former Cowboys OC Kellen Moore, Commanders assistant Kliff Kingsbury, and even Bill Belichick, despite recent struggles.
The top contender, however, might be Mike Vrabel, who had playoff success with the Titans. Hiring Vrabel, a defensive-minded coach, could end the Cowboys’ 29-year Super Bowl drought, making him a compelling choice as the team’s next leade
Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy is on the hot seat after a tough 3-6 start, compounded by Dak Prescott’s season-ending injury.
With his contract expiring, McCarthy might follow Jason Garrett’s path, whose tenure also ended without an extension after mediocre results.
Owner Jerry Jones recently sparked speculation about McCarthy’s replacement, mentioning Jason Witten, currently coaching a Texas high school team, as a potential candidate.
While Witten lacks NFL coaching experience, other names in the mix include Deion Sanders, Eagles OC Kellen Moore, and Kliff Kingsbury, with Bill Belichick also a perennial discussion point. However, former Titans coach Mike Vrabel is considered the leading candidate.
Vrabel, who won multiple division titles with Tennessee, would bring a defensive focus not seen in Dallas since Wade Phillips’ hire in 2007. With the Cowboys chasing their first Super Bowl appearance in 29 years, Vrabel could offer the leadership to break the cycle of frustration.
Mike McCarthy’s time as the Dallas Cowboys’ head coach may be nearing its end. With the team at 3-6 and Dak Prescott out for the season, McCarthy’s expiring contract mirrors Jason Garrett’s situation in 2019, when Garrett departed after failing to secure an extension. Jerry Jones recently fueled speculation by endorsing former Cowboy Jason Witten as a potential coach.
Witten has achieved success in high school football but lacks NFL experience. Other candidates include college star Deion Sanders, ex-Cowboys OC Kellen Moore, and Commanders assistant Kliff Kingsbury. Bill Belichick’s name often comes up, though his recent record with the Patriots is underwhelming.
The frontrunner appears to be Mike Vrabel, who achieved playoff success with the Titans. A defensive-minded leader, Vrabel would bring a new approach as Dallas seeks its first Super Bowl trip in 29 years. His proven track record makes him a strong contender to replace McCarthy.
The Dallas Cowboys’ disappointing 3-6 season has put head coach Mike McCarthy in a precarious position. With Dak Prescott sidelined and McCarthy’s contract ending, comparisons to Jason Garrett’s unrenewed deal in 2019 have resurfaced. Jerry Jones recently praised Jason Witten, a former Cowboys star and now a successful high school coach, as a potential NFL coach, though his lack of pro-level experience raises questions.
Other possibilities include Deion Sanders, Kellen Moore, Kliff Kingsbury, and even Bill Belichick, despite his struggles with the Patriots.
However, Mike Vrabel, a former Titans coach who led the team to multiple playoff appearances, is seen as the leading candidate.
Vrabel’s defensive expertise and strong coaching résumé make him an appealing choice for a franchise that hasn’t reached the Super Bowl in nearly three decades.
The Cowboys may hope Vrabel is the key to finally ending their long championship drought.
