Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has addressed swirling speculation regarding the future of head coach Mike McCarthy, signaling a commitment to stability while avoiding definitive statements about potential changes.
Earlier this week, Jones was careful not to hint at a decision about McCarthy’s tenure, despite the team’s struggles this season and the fact that McCarthy is in the final year of his contract.
“What I’m not going to do this morning is to get into any indication one way or the other that I’m not interested in having Mike back,” Jones told reporters. “We’ve got this game ahead of us, and I’ve been thinking for weeks about how we’ll move forward after this season.”
The Cowboys’ underwhelming performance this year has sparked conversations about potential coaching changes. High-profile names, such as Deion Sanders and Jon Gruden, have been floated as possible successors. However, Jones put an end to at least one of those rumors on Friday.
When asked directly if former Super Bowl-winning coach Jon Gruden could be a candidate to replace McCarthy, Jones clarified his stance. “Jon is a friend, and that’s as far as the conversation goes,” he said during a radio appearance. “I just don’t have any comment there at all.”
Jones also dismissed the idea that Sunday’s game against the Washington Commanders could have a make-or-break impact on the coaching staff’s future. “The hay is in the barn as far as our staff is concerned,” Jones said. “I don’t think something would happen out here Sunday that would impact where we’re gonna be as we go forward.”
Despite the uncertainty surrounding McCarthy’s future, Jones’ comments suggest that any decisions will be made with a long-term perspective rather than as a reaction to immediate outcomes.
While McCarthy has faced criticism for the team’s performance this season, Jones’ measured approach indicates he is weighing his options carefully. Whether this signals confidence in McCarthy’s ability to lead the Cowboys or a desire to avoid abrupt changes, the offseason will be pivotal in determining the franchise’s direction.
For now, the focus remains on closing out the season, but Jones’ comments hint at significant deliberations happening behind the scenes as the Cowboys look to rebound and reestablish themselves as championship contenders.
