The Dallas Cowboys and Jerry Jones seem to have found themselves in the midst of controversy and fan dissidence, for not the first time this season. The team posted a 12-5 record for the third straight year, two of which – including this year – resulted in an NFC East title.
However, after being unceremoniously bounced from the playoffs by the Jordan Love lead Green Bay Packers, in what was another disappointing matchup against his former team, many Cowboys fans have called for Mike McCarthy’s head. Especially considering the mouth-watering caliber of at least one floated potential replacement.
Now, after taking the decision to stick with head coach, McCarthy, Jones has released a telling statement concerning his and the organization’s reasoning in sticking with the Super Bowl champion, per Tom Pelissero.
Statement from #Cowboys owner Jerry Jones on Mike McCarthy, who will return as head coach in 2024: pic.twitter.com/tpMGy9W6cA
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 18, 2024
Why Did Jerry Jones Decide To Stick With Mike McCarthy?
Jerry Jones is known for being notoriously patient with head coaches. Jason Garrett, for example, was given a full decade of employment at the helm of the Cowboys, despite only reaching the playoffs three times and never advancing beyond the divisional round.
In this case, Jones’ decision has a bit more backing to it, as the former Green Bay head coach has posted an impressive 42-25 record with 2 NFC East title and playoff appearances in all but his first year.
Yet, many argue the reasoning for this is the stacked roster behind quarterback Dak Prescott, and a defense with stars at each level including All-Pros Demarcus Lawrence, Micah Parsons and DaRon Bland. Thus, McCarthy’s inability to advance beyond the Divisional round of the playoffs should be the main factor in considering his future at the franchise.
However, many point out that much of the blame falls at the feat of quarterback Dak Prescott, who seemed mentally unprepared for the fixture on Saturday, and was clearly outclassed by his first-year-starting opposite number.
The end of Jones’ statement alluded to the possibility, if ever so slight of a potential change at the quarterback position.
“While we’re not going to address specific players and extensions or free agents at this point, it deserves our deepest review and consideration, and it will get it.”
This is not Jones outright saying he is planning on replacing his franchise quarterback, who currently has just one year left on his contract, but it is certainly a far cry from the definitive statements presented by the Cowboys ownership just a couple of months ago.
It remains to be seen exactly what the ensuing season looks like for Dallas, but one thing, for now, seems to be certain, Mike McCarthy will, barring some spectacular material change, come September, still be the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys.
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