Jerry Jones Believes Jason Witten Has What It Takes to Become a Top NFL Coach

Former Cowboy Jason Witten ‘can be a top NFL coach,’ says Jerry Jones, as the Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a 3-6 record and considering a change at the head coach position. If the team decides to part ways with Mike McCarthy, could they turn to one of their own past stars for leadership?

While it may seem ambitious, Jerry Jones, the team’s owner, has expressed confidence in Witten’s potential to make a significant impact as a head coach. He draws parallels between Witten and Dan Campbell, the current head coach of the Detroit Lions and a former tight end himself, who has garnered attention as a Coach of the Year candidate.

“Without hesitation, yes,” Jones affirmed when asked about Witten’s coaching capabilities in the modern NFL. “He has something that you can’t draw up. He reminds me a lot of our other tight end who is head coach up there in Detroit right now.”

Witten’s storied career with the Cowboys spanned 16 seasons (2003-2017, 2019), during which he established himself as one of the elite tight ends in the league. He achieved over 1,000 receiving yards in four seasons, surpassed 90 receptions in four seasons, and set a personal best of 110 receptions in 2012. His accolades include being a two-time All-Pro and an 11-time Pro Bowler, with a remarkable record of missing only one regular-season game throughout his tenure.

After retiring in 2017, Witten transitioned to a broadcasting role with Monday Night Football in 2018. He made a brief return to the Cowboys before concluding his playing career with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2020.

Since 2021, Witten has taken on the role of head coach at Argyle Liberty Christian High School, where he coaches his two sons, blending family and mentorship in his post-NFL career.

Jones’ comparison to Campbell is noteworthy, especially considering that the Lions currently boast the best record in the NFC at 8-1 in Campbell’s fourth season. The Lions decisively defeated the Cowboys 47-9 in Week 6, and last season, they reached the NFC Championship Game following a 9-8 season. Campbell’s previous experience as the Miami Dolphins’ interim head coach in 2015, where he led the team to a 5-7 record, further highlights his coaching journey.

Interestingly, both Campbell and Witten were third-round draft picks and have ties to the Cowboys. Campbell began his career with the New York Giants (1999-2002) before joining the Cowboys for three seasons (2003-05) and later playing for the Lions (2006-08).

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