The NFL’s coaching carousel was rocked after the Dallas Cowboys and former head coach Mike McCarthy mutually decided to part ways. This unexpected move was particularly surprising given Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones’ consistent support for McCarthy throughout the season, despite fan and pundit calls for his dismissal. When discussions at the negotiating table began, both parties were unable to reach a common ground, resulting in their separation. McCarthy then entered the open market and was swiftly linked to various coaching vacancies, including those with the New Orleans Saints and Chicago Bears. However, it appears he has opted to step back from coaching this cycle and will instead aim for opportunities in the 2026 hiring season.
“Former (Cowboys) coach Mike McCarthy has decided to focus on the 2026 hiring cycle and will not coach in the NFL this season, sources tell me and (Ian Rapoport). McCarthy, who has made the playoffs 12 times in 18 seasons, is expected to be a strong candidate a year from now,” reported Tom Pelissero on Tuesday evening.
Former #Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy has decided to focus on the 2026 hiring cycle and will not coach in the NFL this season, sources tell me and @RapSheet.
McCarthy, who has made the playoffs 12 times in 18 seasons, is expected to be a strong candidate a year from now. pic.twitter.com/Vr8mMijIkq
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 29, 2025
Fans expressed their thoughts on social media regarding McCarthy’s decision. One fan remarked, “Don’t know why teams are interested in him. He has done less with more than other coaches in NFL history. He had prime Aaron Rodgers and only one Super Bowl. The only QB to compare with Rodgers talent-wise is Patrick Mahomes. How many Super Bowls does he have? Stop hiring Mike McCarthy.” Another fan chimed in, “The amount of coaches saying hard pass to the Saints job is funny,” while someone else suggested, “At this point, the Saints may need to start looking at fans to become head coach.” It will be intriguing to see if McCarthy receives another opportunity in the next hiring cycle.
