Dallas Cowboys to Replace Mike McCarthy: Three Potential Coaching Candidates for 2025
As the 2024 NFL season progresses, speculation is growing about the future of Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy. While McCarthy has had moments of success since taking over in 2020, the pressure in Dallas is always high, especially with a team boasting talent like Dak Prescott, Micah Parsons, and CeeDee Lamb. If the Cowboys fall short of expectations this season, rumors suggest owner Jerry Jones may decide to make a coaching change in 2025. Here are three possible candidates to replace McCarthy should the Cowboys look to go in a new direction.
1. Dan Quinn – Cowboys Defensive Coordinator
Dan Quinn, the current defensive coordinator for the Cowboys, has been one of the most talked-about coaching candidates for a head coaching role, and he may not have to go far for his next opportunity. Since joining Dallas in 2021, Quinn has transformed the Cowboys’ defense into one of the best in the league. His innovative schemes have turned players like Micah Parsons into superstars and helped the unit dominate in key situations.
Quinn has head coaching experience, having led the Atlanta Falcons from 2015 to 2020. His tenure in Atlanta included an NFC Championship and a trip to Super Bowl LI. While his time with the Falcons ended on a sour note, Quinn’s success in Dallas has rejuvenated his career, and his familiarity with the Cowboys’ organization could make for a smooth transition if McCarthy departs.
2. Kellen Moore – Los Angeles Chargers Offensive Coordinator
Kellen Moore, the former Cowboys offensive coordinator, is another name that could be in the mix. Moore, currently with the Los Angeles Chargers, spent several years as the Cowboys’ OC and was highly regarded for his offensive creativity. Under his direction, the Cowboys consistently ranked among the top offenses in the league, and his ability to maximize the talents of Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott, and Amari Cooper was evident.
Moore has been seen as a rising star in the coaching ranks, and his familiarity with the Cowboys’ roster, as well as his relationship with Prescott, could make him an appealing option for Dallas. The team’s offensive identity under Moore was dynamic, and a return to that style could appeal to Jerry Jones.
3. Jim Harbaugh – Michigan Wolverines Head Coach
Jim Harbaugh’s name often surfaces when NFL coaching vacancies arise, and the Cowboys could be a landing spot if Jones wants a big-name hire. Harbaugh has extensive NFL experience, having led the San Francisco 49ers to three straight NFC Championship Games and a Super Bowl appearance during his tenure from 2011 to 2014. Known for his fiery personality and ability to build tough, physical teams, Harbaugh would bring a competitive edge to Dallas.
Harbaugh has had success at every level he’s coached, and his time at Michigan has been no exception. While he has repeatedly turned down NFL opportunities to remain in college football, a return to the NFL with the Cowboys could be intriguing, especially given Dallas’ storied history and Super Bowl aspirations.
Conclusion
If Mike McCarthy’s time in Dallas comes to an end in 2025, the Cowboys will have no shortage of candidates to choose from. Whether it’s promoting from within with Dan Quinn, bringing back a familiar face like Kellen Moore, or making a splash with a coach like Jim Harbaugh, Jerry Jones will have critical decisions to make as he seeks the next leader to bring the Cowboys back to Super Bowl glory.