The Dallas Cowboys are the latest team to part with their head coach and begin a new era in 2025. Mike McCarthy, who was out of a contract at the end of this season, was unable to come to an agreement for the 2025 campaign. This led to the two sides mutually parting ways after a 7-10 campaign.
The Dallas job, despite Jerry Jones' interference, is a very attractive opening. Dallas' division is by no means a nightmare, ownership is constantly willing to spend money and acquire star players, and a Top 10 quarterback in Dak Prescott is already locked up long-term.
These five coaches could be upgrades over McCarthy, as they have the schematic knowledge and leadership capabilities needed to get the most out of Prescott and get a very talented roster back to the NFC's elite tier after being knocked off their pedestal.
5 Mike McCarthy replacements Cowboys must target as next head coach
5. Deion Sanders, HC, Colorado Buffaloes
This is likely not going to happen. However, if you don't believe Jerry will at least consider this, I have a bridge to sell you. Sanders, a Cowboys legend, may not have a desire to coach in the pros, but the Dallas job could be the one opening he would consider that did not have his son Shedeur on board.
4. Robert Saleh, former HC, New York Jets
Saleh was unfairly scapegoated, to a degree, in New York. A defensive mastermind who built a juggernaut of a unit with the Jets (which fell apart after he was fired), Saleh's fatal flaw was bringing in poor offensive coaches and quarterbacks. Having Prescott ready to go could be very appealing for him, as his defensive wizardry paired with Micah Parsons could be scary for opponents.
3. Brian Flores, DC, Minnesota Vikings
Flores wore out his welcome in Miami after being described as too tyrannical and hot-headed, but he still was able to perform at a .500 level despite some wretched rosters. The architect of arguably the most havoc-inducing defense in the league, Flores' second go-around could be much better if he poaches a few names from Minnesota's highly-regarded offensive staff.
2. Kellen Moore, OC, Philadelphia Eagles
Moore, a former Cowboys quarterback McCarthy retained, made his name as Dallas' pass-happy offensive coordinator. After helping Saquon Barkley run for 2,000 yards, Moore may have done enough with Philadelphia this season to finally get the head coaching shot he deserves. Prescott will be very happy about this decision.
1. Ben Johnson, OC, Detroit Lions
Johnson is the top name on every coaching search, and it's easy to see why. A creative genius who built a buzzsaw of an offense in Detroit, Johnson would help take Prescott to new heights in 2025. Jones is clearly willing to write a big enough check if he really wants to bring Johnson to town.