The Dallas Cowboys’ 2024 season ended disappointingly with a loss in week 18 against the Washington Commandersleaving the franchise at a crossroads. After the game, team owner Jerry Jones addressed the burning question regarding the future of head coach Mike McCarthydelivering both praise and ambiguity.
Jones’ praise for McCarthy
Despite a end of season at 7-10 and a multitude of on-field difficulties, Jones was steadfast in his defense of McCarthy’s skills.
“He’s one of the best coaches in the game, and he’s done nothing to diminish my opinion of him as a coach this year,” Jones said after the game.
Jones highlighted McCarthy’s ability to bring the team together late in the season. The Cowboys started with a record of 3-7 before finishing the year with four wins in their last seven games. Jones also praised McCarthy’s rapport with the players, suggesting his leadership helped stabilize the locker room amid a tumultuous season.
Lingering Questions
Although Jones’ comments suggest respect for McCarthy, he has not committed his word to him for the 2025 season.
The Cowboys’ 2-7 home recordcombined with questionable playing decisions and a failure to live up to expectations, put McCarthy’s tenure under scrutiny. Jones, who has been criticized for his own decisions this offseason, could nevertheless use McCarthy as a scapegoat for the team’s shortcomings.
What are the next steps?
Jones has a history of praising himself before making bold decisions, so McCarthy’s future remains uncertain. If Jones decides to part ways with McCarthy, there will be no shortage of speculation about potential replacements. And Quinnthe Cowboys’ defensive coordinator, remains a strong internal candidate, while external names like Jim Harbaugh or Mike Vrabel could enter into the conversation.
For now, Cowboys fans will have to wait and see if Jones’ praise is sincere or a prelude to change. One thing is certain: The Cowboys’ failure to live up to expectations will force Jones to evaluate every aspect of the organization this offseason.
