Jerry Jones floats the possibility of extending head coach Mike McCarthy despite the Dallas Cowboys’ current 4-7 record, which suggests a likely absence from the playoffs this season.
In an interview with 105.3 The Fan, Jones stated that he does not dismiss the idea of a contract extension for McCarthy, who is in the final year of his agreement.
“I don’t think that’s crazy at all. That’s not crazy,” said Jones, highlighting McCarthy’s extensive experience and innovative strategies as a coach. “Listen, Mike McCarthy is an outstanding coach. … Mike McCarthy has been there, done that. He’s got great ideas.”
Jones emphasized that there are still many games left to play this season, indicating that the team’s future direction remains uncertain.
In his five seasons with the Cowboys, McCarthy has achieved notable regular-season success. After Dak Prescott’s injury in 2020, the team rebounded, winning 12 games in each of the following three seasons and capturing the division title twice.
However, the Cowboys have struggled in the playoffs since their last Super Bowl victory in 1995, winning just one playoff game in three years. Last season, they suffered a historic upset as the first No. 2 seed to lose to a No. 7 seed at home.
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Following a disappointing playoff exit against the Green Bay Packers, McCarthy’s job security came into question. Although the Cowboys decided to retain him, they did not offer an extension, a decision that has yet to yield positive results. Injuries have recently plagued the team, contributing to a five-game losing streak that has dampened hopes of reclaiming the NFC East title.
Despite these challenges, Jones remains hopeful for a postseason push. The Cowboys ended their losing streak with a thrilling 34-26 victory over the Washington Commanders in Week 12, bringing their record to 4-7. With one of the easier remaining schedules in the league, including four games against teams with losing records, they will face the New York Giants on Thanksgiving Day.
However, the road to the playoffs is steep. The Cowboys are currently 2.5 games behind the No. 7 seed and face competition from six other teams for the final playoff spot in the NFC. They are also four games behind the Green Bay Packers, who occupy the No. 6 seed.
Jones insists that “this thing isn’t over,” focusing on securing wins rather than contemplating draft position, a stance that has drawn mixed reactions from fans.
“I just think the game is too important. The win is too important,” he remarked. “You look at a coach and, boy, a coach is sitting there, don’t think they don’t add up their wins and losses during their career and they don’t like to have a loss on there if they can just ask for it.”
“So my point is, for all of us, a win is a very satisfying thing under any circumstance and it helps you build.”
