Cowboys Mike McCarthy is still not “serious” about a new contract before the deadline

As the clock ticks Dallas Cowboys‘ exclusive negotiating window with the head coach Mike McCarthysignificant contract negotiations have yet to materialize between the two sides, according to sources familiar with the talks. With less than two days left until Tuesday’s deadline, the lack of substantive negotiations is fueled speculation on the direction of the team (per Josh Tolentino of Lonestar Live).

McCarthy, 61, just completed his fifth season as the Cowboys’ head coach, leading the team to a 7-10 record in 2024. A disappointing campaign ended with a loss to the Washington Commanders in the regular season finale, leading to questions about McCarthy’s long-term future in Dallas. His contract officially expired last Wednesday, although the Cowboys retain exclusive rights to negotiate until Tuesday.

Owner and general manager Jerry Jones stayed on significantly is silent on McCarthy’s situation. The silence has fueled rumors that Jones may have alternative plans for the head coaching job or that he could wait until the last minute to speed up talks.

Meanwhile, other NFL teams with head coaching vacancies have been proactive in their searches. On Sunday, the New England Patriots announced the hiring of former Titans coach Mike Vrabel, highlighting the urgency with which some organizations are moving. Suitors reportedly interested in McCarthy’s services include the Chicago Bears, who requested permission to interview him last week. However, Dallas declined the request, signaling a potential desire to keep him.

McCarthy himself expressed optimism about continuing with the Cowboys. “I’ve invested a lot here, and the Cowboys have invested a lot in me,” McCarthy said during a Jan. 5 interview. “I’m definitely in a position with Jerry to move the program forward.”

Despite McCarthy’s confidencethe lack of action reflects Jones’ approach to past contract negotiations. Last summer, quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb experienced delays in their contracts, with deals finalized only at critical moments. This history suggests that a last-minute deal with McCarthy is still possible.

During his tenure in Dallas, McCarthy compiled a 49-35 record, including a disappointing 1-3 playoff run. His coaching resume, which spans 18 seasons with the Cowboys and Green Bay Packers, includes a 174-112-2 overall record and a Super Bowl XLV victory with the Packers. While his regular season performance was solid, the playoff struggles and the team’s failure to live up to expectations in 2024 have some fans and analysts questioning whether he is the right coach to lead Dallas forward.

In addition to McCarthy’s contract, virtually all of the Cowboys’ assistant coaches face contracts that expire on Tuesday. The potential reversal has added extra urgency to the situation as the team seeks clarity heading into the offseason.

For now, the NFL world awaits Jones’ next move. Whether the Cowboys end up keeping McCarthy or pivoting in another direction, the decision will significantly shape the team’s immediate and long-term future.