The Dallas Cowboys have officially kicked off their search for a new head coach after parting ways with Mike McCarthy earlier this week. On Friday, the team completed a virtual interview with Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, marking the first formal step in their quest to fill the vacancy.
A Familiar Face in Dallas
Kellen Moore is no stranger to the Cowboys organization. From 2019 to 2022, Moore served as the offensive coordinator for Dallas, working closely with franchise quarterback Dak Prescott. This partnership spanned the first three years of McCarthy’s five-year tenure before Moore left to join the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023. McCarthy, at that point, assumed play-calling duties for the Cowboys.
Moore’s coaching pedigree goes beyond his time in Dallas. Before stepping into his role as an offensive coordinator, Moore was a backup quarterback for the Cowboys in 2017, playing behind Prescott. He later became Prescott’s position coach in 2018, building a strong connection with the quarterback. Most recently, Moore has led an explosive Eagles offense that features star running back Saquon Barkley, who became just the ninth player in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards in a single season.
Moore’s Eagles will face the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round on Sunday, but his experience and past ties to Dallas make him an intriguing candidate to replace McCarthy.
Other Candidates in the Mix
While Moore represents the first official interview, the Cowboys have their eyes on several other potential candidates. Next on their list are two former NFL head coaches: Robert Saleh and Leslie Frazier.
Robert Saleh, who was dismissed by the New York Jets after just five games into his fourth season in 2024, brings a defensive-minded approach to the table. Leslie Frazier, on the other hand, has more extensive experience. Currently serving as the assistant head coach for the Seattle Seahawks, Frazier was previously the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings from 2010 to 2013.
Deion Sanders: A Wild Card Option?
The Cowboys are also reportedly exploring an unconventional yet fascinating option: Colorado Buffaloes head coach and NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner and general manager, has reportedly held informal talks with Sanders. As a former cornerback for the Cowboys, Sanders played five seasons in Dallas and was instrumental in the team’s last Super Bowl victory in the 1995 season. His charismatic leadership and recent success as a college coach have drawn significant attention, but it remains to be seen if he would entertain a return to the NFL as a head coach.
Jason Witten: A Dark Horse Candidate
Another name that has surfaced in discussions is Jason Witten, the legendary Cowboys tight end. Witten, an 11-time Pro Bowler and record holder for several franchise milestones, has been coaching at a private school in the Dallas area since retiring for the second time after the 2020 season. While Witten lacks professional coaching experience, his deep connection to the Cowboys and leadership qualities make him a potential dark horse in the race for the head coaching job.
What’s Next for the Cowboys?
The Cowboys are clearly casting a wide net in their search for a new head coach, blending familiar faces with outside perspectives. With Jerry Jones at the helm, the decision-making process is sure to be as high-profile as the franchise itself. Fans can expect more updates in the coming weeks as Dallas evaluates its options.
Stay tuned as the Cowboys continue their search for the leader who will guide the team in the next chapter of their storied history.