Given the timing on the decision to move on from Mike McCarthy, the Cowboys are slightly behind other head coach-needy teams around the NFL. A list of candidates has emerged over the past few days, but it could grow in the near future.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports Dallas is expected to speak with more potential hires over the coming days (video link). Once the divisional round concludes, several notable coaches will become eligible to conduct in-person interviews with the six teams still in need of a new HC. The Lions’ in-demand duo of Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn are among the staffers available to be hired at any time starting tomorrow, and to no surprise ESPN’s Adam Schefter notes they represent the next two dominoes to fall in the hiring cycle (video link).
Glenn was mentioned yesterday as a potential Cowboys target, but to date no connections have been made between Dallas and Johnson. A different candidate with an offensive background could be on the team’s radar, though. Rapoport names Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury as someone who could receive an interview request from the Cowboys. Washington’s season is ongoing, of course, something which will delay the process by which he could land his next head coaching gig.
Kingsbury returned to the pro game this offseason by joining Dan Quinn‘s staff. The former Cardinals coach and USC staffer has drawn praise for the performance of the Commanders’ offense in general and the play of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels in particular. The Bears and Saints have submitted interview requests for the 45-year-old, while the Jaguars have also been mentioned as a potential suitor. Kingsbury made it clear last week he will not take part in any interviews (even virtual ones) until the Commanders’ season comes to an end.
The only remaining interview on the Cowboys’ docket as things stand is with Seahawks assistant Leslie Frazier. Dallas was not among the teams to request an interview with Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, although he is now off the market for at least one more year as a result of his Longhorns extension. It will be interesting to see which other targets emerge for the Dallas vacancy with an increased pool of candidates available.
For the time being, though, here is where things stand with the Cowboys:
- Bill Belichick, head coach (North Carolina): Mutual interest would have existed
- Leslie Frazier, assistant head coach (Seahawks): To interview 1/20
- Aaron Glenn, defensive coordinator (Lions): Mentioned as candidate
- Kliff Kingsbury, offensive coordinator (Commanders): Mentioned as candidate
- Kellen Moore, offensive coordinator (Eagles): Interviewed 1/17
- Robert Saleh, former head coach (Jets): Interviewed 1/18
- Deion Sanders, head coach (Colorado): Discussions commenced; no deal expected
The Cowboy’s HC search is becoming the “Blue Jays were in interested in” version of the NFL.
as a fan of both teams (jays/cowboys) this comment – sadly – tracks.
Dumb Sportsball Fans think all sports alike.
ChuckyNJ doesn’t understand how an analogy works
Kliff flying to Dallas as we speak.
This win should easily help Kingsbury, regardless. I predict he works with Baalke in Jax …
It’s the QB. Murray isn’t anything, Jayden is making Klif look great again.
Pretty much since his offense is RPO heavy he is just providing a play option. The QB is the one deciding everything and reading the game flow. This offense is not working with Dak who does not run much since the ankle. Cooper Rush is not a fit. Lance has not shown he can command an offense.
Did arty see how the Commanders beat Detroit? 4 interceptions, one of them a pick-6. You don’t win in the NFL without defense!
I saw the game. I also saw Kliff do noting with Murray. Did you watch those seasons?
Kyler won ROY and also made multiple pro bowls under Kliff. Actually hasn’t made one since Kliff left. I get he’s only played 1 1/2 seasons without Kliff (due to injury) but his better years were with Kliff IMO. He’s not as electric now and makes more mistakes. Less TDs. Etc.
Side note: I watch almost all Cards games because my son is a James Conner fan.
Would you rather have Ben Johnson or Kliff? Serious question. I’m curious.
Ben. Goff was a throw in for the Stafford trade and Ben helped him to be discussed in the MVP race for much of the season. I’d prefer to try a new guy rather than retread. And we’ve seen Goff’s growth over a few seasons not just one.
I saw a stat somewhere that Kliff’s teams, both in college and AZ, have a history of faltering down the stretch as well. As many people say some people are better at being a coordinator than a HC. One great season in DC shouldn’t change that fact. If he showed success over 3 years, like Ben has done, sure I’ve give him a shot. Right now, I think he should embrace the OC role and become more well rounded.
Another example is last offseason, the Texans OC was a hot name for a HC gig. His reputation took a big hit this season. He also needs time to build and showcase his OC skills with a top 5 QB for a period of a few seasons.
Both good points. Maybe Kliff needs to prove himself for another year or two before taking another HC job. Johnson was going to be an HC at some point. So why not now. They’re saying the Raiders. When was the last time the raiders got a hot HC candidate? Maybe Gruden? I don’t remember him being as hot as Johnson was.
Its already been confirmed that it was McCarthy decided to move on not the Cowboys.
They were negotiating a contract and McCarthy was not happy with the years being offered.
Why do “reporters” misrepresenting this?
Better an OC w/Jayden than HC w/Jerry
¯\_(ツ)_/¯