Dallas Cowboys Expected to Interview 2 Top NFC Assistants in HC Search: A Turning Point for the Franchise?
The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most storied franchises in NFL history, have always been a team under the microscope. With a rich tradition of success, a massive fan base, and a history of high expectations, the Cowboys’ trajectory is often followed closely by both supporters and critics alike. But after another disappointing postseason exit, this time at the hands of the San Francisco 49ers, the pressure is on owner Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ front office to make crucial decisions about the direction of the team.
As of early January, the Dallas Cowboys are actively engaged in one of the most critical offseasons in recent memory. The team is currently in the process of searching for a new head coach following the conclusion of the 2024 season, and it seems that a shift in leadership might be necessary to overcome the championship drought that has lasted more than two decades. The Cowboys, though incredibly talented, have consistently fallen short in the postseason, and with that comes inevitable questions about the leadership structure. Speculation has been rampant about the future of Mike McCarthy, who has served as the team’s head coach since 2020 but has yet to lead the Cowboys past the Divisional Round of the playoffs. While McCarthy has had success in the regular season, the lack of playoff success has many wondering if it’s time for a change.
In this high-stakes situation, the Cowboys are reportedly looking outside the organization for a new leader—one who could potentially spark a cultural reset and bring this team back to its Super Bowl-winning ways. According to various reports, Dallas is expected to interview two top assistants from the NFC for the coveted head coach position. The potential candidates have strong resumes and are seen as among the brightest minds in the NFL. These interviews could be pivotal in determining the Cowboys’ future.
The State of the Cowboys: A Team on the Brink
To understand why the Cowboys are so intent on making a change at head coach, it’s important to examine the team’s current state. Over the past several seasons, the Cowboys have been consistently competitive, regularly making the playoffs with one of the most talented rosters in the league. Quarterback Dak Prescott, running back Ezekiel Elliott (at least in his prime years), and defensive stars like Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs have formed a core of dynamic playmakers. However, despite these individual talents, the Cowboys have failed to make a significant impact in the postseason.
The 2024 season, while strong in many respects, once again exposed the Cowboys’ inability to reach the next level. Prescott’s inconsistency at times and an underwhelming offensive performance against top-tier teams left fans and analysts frustrated. Meanwhile, McCarthy’s decision-making, particularly in high-pressure moments, came under fire. For many, it was clear that the status quo needed to change if the Cowboys were to meet their lofty expectations.
The frustration over this continued cycle of regular-season success followed by playoff disappointment has left Jerry Jones with an important decision to make. Should he stick with McCarthy, who has overseen a consistent but largely uninspiring tenure, or should he look elsewhere? If Jones is looking for a new voice in the locker room, a fresh strategy, and an infusion of energy to overcome this postseason block, interviewing new coaching candidates from the NFC is a sensible path.
NFC Assistants as Potential Head Coach Candidates
The Cowboys are now poised to conduct interviews with two of the most talked-about assistant coaches in the NFC. These individuals have garnered praise for their roles in orchestrating successful offenses and defenses, and both bring a wealth of experience and fresh perspectives.
1. Dan Quinn: A Defensive Maestro with Head Coach Experience
Dan Quinn is the first of the two NFC assistants who is expected to get an interview with the Cowboys. Currently the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator, Quinn has been widely praised for his ability to revamp and energize the Dallas defense since his arrival in 2021. Under his leadership, the Cowboys’ defense became one of the most dynamic and aggressive units in the NFL, with standout players like Micah Parsons emerging as key contributors.
Quinn, however, is not new to the head coaching spotlight. He served as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons from 2015 to 2020, leading the team to a Super Bowl appearance in the 2016 season. While the Falcons’ ultimately lost to the New England Patriots in one of the most memorable Super Bowl comebacks in history, Quinn’s ability to guide a team to the biggest stage is notable. He has significant experience managing a high-pressure role and could bring a more defensive-minded approach to the Cowboys’ coaching strategy.
During his time with the Falcons, Quinn was highly regarded for his leadership qualities and his ability to build a strong team culture. His expertise in developing defensive talent, as well as his ability to adjust schemes based on opponent strengths, would be a significant asset for the Cowboys. While he did not achieve a Super Bowl victory in Atlanta, his success in developing players and managing a team through adversity speaks to his capabilities.
In Dallas, Quinn has helped to turn the Cowboys’ defense into one of the league’s top units, and he is viewed as a potential candidate to carry that success over into the head coaching role. His familiarity with the team and its personnel would make a transition to head coach relatively smooth. He knows the players, understands the system, and has already proven he can lead at the highest level.
Quinn’s experience as a head coach, paired with his current success as the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator, makes him a highly appealing candidate. However, his potential as a head coach could depend on whether Jones is willing to take a defensive-minded approach to leading the team, as many recent head coaches have been offensive-minded.
2. Kellen Moore: The Offensive Whiz Kid with Championship Potential
The second NFC assistant who is expected to be interviewed by the Cowboys is Kellen Moore, their current offensive coordinator. Moore, who has been with the Cowboys since 2018, is seen as one of the brightest young minds in the NFL. As the team’s offensive coordinator, Moore has overseen a dynamic and potent offense, particularly in his first few seasons. The team’s success in putting up impressive numbers in the regular season under his watch has been a testament to his ability to adapt and develop schemes that play to the strengths of the players.
Moore’s ability to manage an offense has been evident throughout his career, and he has become a rising star in NFL coaching circles. Prescott has thrived under Moore’s tutelage, developing into one of the league’s most consistent quarterbacks. Moore’s ability to build effective offensive schemes, especially through a pass-heavy system, has helped elevate the Cowboys’ attack. However, despite the impressive numbers, Moore has faced some criticism in the postseason. The Cowboys’ offensive struggles, particularly in big games, have led some to question whether Moore is the right fit for a head coaching role.
Despite these criticisms, Moore’s potential as a head coach lies in his youth, energy, and innovative mindset. He is an offensive mastermind who has a deep understanding of the intricacies of modern football. If the Cowboys decide to go with Moore, they would be taking a risk, but they would also be betting on someone who could provide a long-term solution at head coach. His ability to connect with players, particularly with Prescott, could translate well into managing the entire team.
Moore is seen as someone who could bring a fresh, dynamic approach to the Cowboys’ offense. His high-energy, innovative style could provide the necessary spark for a team that, despite its individual talent, has lacked the necessary explosiveness in high-pressure situations.
The Cowboys’ Search for a Head Coach: What to Expect Going Forward
The decision to interview Quinn and Moore is a significant one for the Cowboys’ future. Both coaches bring unique qualities to the table, and their candidacies reflect the team’s desire to explore all options for the next phase of the franchise. Whether the Cowboys decide to go with a defensive-minded coach like Quinn or opt for the offensive-minded Moore, it is clear that the team is looking for a leader who can take them to the next level.
The reality is that the Cowboys are in need of a cultural shift. While talent is not an issue, the team’s inability to convert that talent into playoff success has become a serious concern. For the Cowboys to finally return to the Super Bowl, they need a head coach who can manage both the locker room and the media spotlight, who can adjust on the fly and inspire players to elevate their game when it matters most.
At the same time, the Cowboys must contend with the realities of their unique franchise dynamic. Owner Jerry Jones has a very hands-on approach to the team, and the new head coach will need to navigate that relationship carefully. Whether it’s Quinn or Moore, the next Cowboys head coach will need to find a balance between respecting Jones’ vision and maintaining the autonomy necessary for success.
The next few weeks will be critical for the Cowboys, as they look to make the right decision that will shape the team’s future. Quinn and Moore are just two of the top candidates, but their candidacies highlight the franchise’s commitment to finding the right fit for this pivotal moment in Cowboys history. Ultimately, the new head coach will have to carry the weight of a long-suffering fan base hoping for a return to glory.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for the Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys’ coaching search is not just about hiring a head coach—it’s about finding a leader who can take the team back to its championship-winning ways. Both Dan Quinn and Kellen Moore have the potential to be that leader, but they bring different styles and approaches to the table. With interviews on the horizon, the Cowboys have a big decision ahead of them. Their next move could be the one that finally breaks the long-standing postseason curse and propels them back into Super Bowl contention.
