Who Will Coach the Dallas Cowboys Next?
The Dallas Cowboys are one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, and with that prestige comes immense scrutiny for anyone in charge.
As questions mount about head coach Mike McCarthy’s future, speculation about potential replacements has started to swirl.
Despite leading the Cowboys to consecutive playoff appearances, critics point to inconsistent offensive performances, clock management issues, and the team’s inability to make a deep postseason run under McCarthy’s leadership.
If Cowboys owner Jerry Jones decides to move on, here’s a look at potential candidates who could take the reins in Dallas.
1. Dan Quinn (Defensive Coordinator, Dallas Cowboys)
A natural front-runner is current Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn. Quinn has transformed Dallas’ defense into one of the league’s most dominant units, anchored by stars like Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs.
His previous head coaching experience with the Atlanta Falcons, including leading them to a Super Bowl appearance, makes him an attractive candidate. Keeping Quinn would also provide continuity for the defense, which has been the team’s backbone.
2. Kellen Moore (Offensive Coordinator, Los Angeles Chargers)
The former Cowboys offensive coordinator is still highly regarded in Dallas despite parting ways with the team after the 2022 season.
Currently working with Justin Herbert and the Chargers, Moore’s offensive creativity and familiarity with the Cowboys roster could make him a compelling option. If Jerry Jones is looking to rekindle offensive firepower, Moore could be the right fit.
3. DeMeco Ryans (Head Coach, Houston Texans)
Although Ryans is in his first year with the Texans, his impressive work turning around a rebuilding team has made him a rising star in coaching circles.
While luring him away might be a long shot, Ryans’ leadership and defensive expertise align well with the Cowboys’ identity. His ability to inspire players and implement a disciplined approach would resonate with Jones and the Dallas fanbase.
4. Jim Harbaugh (Head Coach, Michigan Wolverines)
Harbaugh’s name is consistently floated for NFL vacancies, and for good reason. He boasts a successful NFL track record, including leading the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl.
With rumors of him eyeing a return to the pros, Harbaugh’s ability to instill toughness and elevate quarterbacks could make him an appealing choice for the Cowboys.
5. Sean Payton (Head Coach, Denver Broncos)
Though Payton is currently coaching the Denver Broncos, his ties to Dallas cannot be ignored. A long-time target of Jerry Jones, Payton spent three years as a Cowboys assistant and has deep respect within the organization.
While unlikely given his current role, it’s worth noting Jones’ penchant for splashy moves, and Payton would certainly be a blockbuster hire.
6. Eric Bieniemy (Offensive Coordinator, Washington Commanders)
Bieniemy has long been a highly-regarded offensive mind, having served as the architect of Kansas City’s high-powered offense alongside Patrick Mahomes before joining the Commanders.
If the Cowboys are looking to modernize their offense while bringing a fresh perspective, Bieniemy could finally get his chance as a head coach in Dallas.
7. Mike Vrabel (Head Coach, Tennessee Titans)
A bold and unconventional option could be Mike Vrabel. Known for his defensive acumen and leadership, Vrabel has earned respect around the league for overachieving with the Titans.
If Tennessee opts for a rebuild and parts ways with Vrabel, he could emerge as a candidate to bring discipline and toughness to Dallas.
8. Ben Johnson (Offensive Coordinator, Detroit Lions)
The Lions’ offense has been one of the most dynamic in the league, and much of the credit goes to Ben Johnson.
As one of the hottest coaching prospects, Johnson’s innovative play-calling and development of players like Jared Goff could make him a strong candidate to reinvigorate the Cowboys’ offense.
The Stakes for Jerry Jones
Replacing Mike McCarthy wouldn’t just be a football decision—it would be a statement. Jerry Jones is acutely aware that the Cowboys’ championship drought, which stretches back to 1995, looms large over the franchise.
Choosing the next head coach would signal the team’s direction for years to come. Whether Jones opts for continuity with someone like Dan Quinn or pursues a splashy name like Harbaugh, the pressure to deliver a championship will remain immense.
Whoever takes over will inherit a talented roster led by Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons, but also the weight of expectations from one of the most demanding fanbases in sports.
Time will tell if McCarthy can prove his critics wrong or if the Cowboys will embark on yet another coaching search to restore their Super Bowl hopes.
