Major upheaval could be in store for Cowboys coaching staff

Mike McCarthy is likely to return but just about every other Cowboys coaching position faces an uncertain future this off-season in Dallas. | From @ReidDHanson

As the Cowboys limp away from their season-ending loss at Levi’s Stadium, some literally, an uncertain future awaits many. In the salary cap era, rosters are always going to see their fair share of churn, so that’s nothing new. But this winter could see major upheaval in Dallas’ coaching ranks as well.

Immediately following the 19-12 loss to the 49ers in the NFC divisional round, owner Jerry Jones spoke to reporters, ensuring nothing has changed regarding his endorsement of his head coach. Mike McCarthy’s job security was first called into question before the postseason began. Instead of hedging or deflecting, Jones gave a fairly sturdy endorsement saying “No. I don’t even want to – no.” After the loss to San Francisco, Jones doubled-down on his support of his head coach. Asked if he changed his mind regarding McCarthy, Jones replied, “No, no, no, not at all.”

But behind McCarthy, down the coaching ranks, anything can happen. Despite getting a significant raise to stay on as the defensive coordinator in 2022, Dan Quinn could be on his way out. Quinn is among the leading candidates to land the Denver Broncos’ open position. He recently interviewed with the Colts and could very well receive multiple offers before all is said and done.

Kellen Moore, the Cowboys offensive coordinator, has drawn interest as well. The 34-year-old play-caller is somewhat maligned in Dallas, but held in high regard around the league. He will interview for the vacant spot in Carolina, at a minimum.

Considering all of this, there is a very real chance the Cowboys lose both coordinators and portions of their respective staffs in coming weeks. Some could see this as a good thing, but in an age where stability is king and the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, major upheaval could set Dallas back.

It’s not unrealistic to imagine Dallas will have significant churn in their coaching ranks. Not because of underachieving performers but because they were successful and received better offers elsewhere.

An important distinction to keep in mind.