Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy is poised to enter free agency as his contract is set to expire on Tuesday. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports that McCarthy will not sign a new deal with the Cowboys, citing unresolved discussions regarding the length of the contract. Consequently, McCarthy plans to explore new opportunities in the coaching landscape. The 61-year-old coach is now eligible to interview for one or more of the NFL's five vacant positions, with the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints reportedly expressing interest.

The departure of McCarthy marks a significant turning point for the Cowboys as they will need to identify a new head coach who has led the team to a 49-35 record and three playoff appearances over five seasons. While postseason success has eluded McCarthy during his tenure, the franchise may face considerable scrutiny if they fail to secure a successful replacement. Potential candidates for consideration will be evaluated based on their past performances, coaching styles, and the specific needs of the team. Although some coaches excel at coordinating, they may not be equipped to handle the demands of a head coaching role.

Among the possible candidates are Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, both of whom are gaining traction as attractive coaching prospects. Despite being untested as head coaches, their contributions to the Lions' high-powered offense and resilient defense showcase their capabilities. Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady is another name that may surface in Dallas' search, particularly following his success despite losing star receiver Stefon Diggs. However, the Cowboys may lean towards candidates with head coaching experience, considering their current season's challenges, particularly a struggling offense and the need for an effective defensive strategy.