Alternative candidates to Remodel cowboys after McCarthy…read more…
The Dallas Cowboys have undergone a number of transitions since their glory years under head coach Jimmy Johnson, and more recently, under the leadership of Mike McCarthy. As the 2023 season unfolded, questions began swirling about McCarthy’s future with the team and whether the Cowboys needed to pivot in a new direction to capitalize on their strong roster and aspirations for a Super Bowl title. Although McCarthy’s position is still secure as of now, alternative coaching candidates to reshape the Cowboys’ future would involve identifying individuals who could bring fresh energy, innovation, and leadership to a team poised for success.
Here are some alternative candidates who could remodel the Cowboys if the team chooses to make a change:
1. Dan Quinn (Defensive Coordinator, Dallas Cowboys)
Dan Quinn, the Cowboys’ current defensive coordinator, is an obvious candidate for the head coaching role. As a former head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, Quinn has plenty of experience running an NFL team. Under his leadership, the Cowboys defense has significantly improved, becoming one of the most formidable units in the league. Quinn has a proven track record of building successful defenses, having been a key architect of the Seattle Seahawks’ “Legion of Boom” defense, which helped propel the team to a Super Bowl win.
Quinn knows the Cowboys’ personnel well and has already earned the respect of the locker room. His leadership and aggressive defensive schemes could make him a smooth transition into the head coach role, offering a fresh approach to the team’s overall strategy. His experience managing a team and focusing on defense could complement the talent already present on offense, especially if the Cowboys decide to continue with a more balanced offensive approach.
2.Kellen Moore (Offensive Coordinator, Los Angeles Chargers)
Before leaving the Cowboys in 2023, Kellen Moore was the team’s offensive coordinator and worked closely with quarterback Dak Prescott. Moore’s innovative play-calling and aggressive offensive schemes were seen as a key factor in the Cowboys’ offensive production during his tenure. After moving on to become the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, Moore’s coaching acumen has only grown. Under Moore’s guidance, the Chargers have exhibited offensive improvement, making him a compelling candidate for a potential return to the Cowboys’ head coach position.
Moore understands the ins and outs of the Cowboys’ offensive talent and would likely make the most of the team’s skill players, such as Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Tony Pollard. His system prioritizes adaptability and creativity, something that could help Dallas push past its recent postseason woes. Given the Cowboys’ need to balance a dynamic offense with a high-powered defense, Moore could be the right man to guide the team toward sustained success.
3. Sean Payton (Head Coach, Denver Broncos)
Sean Payton, one of the most accomplished offensive minds in NFL history, would undoubtedly be an intriguing candidate for the Cowboys. Though Payton left the New Orleans Saints after the 2021 season, his impact on the NFL, particularly in terms of offensive strategy and quarterback development, remains immense. Payton has a history of turning teams into perennial contenders with a high-octane offense led by a capable quarterback, something the Cowboys would love to replicate with Prescott.
Payton’s experience as a Super Bowl-winning coach, along with his ability to get the most out of his quarterback and offensive personnel, could provide a winning formula for the Cowboys. His no-nonsense, results-driven approach would likely resonate well with the franchise, especially as it continues to chase a Super Bowl title. Payton has proven that he can take a team deep into the playoffs and could bring a refreshing mindset to a Cowboys team that has seen mixed results in the postseason under McCarthy.
4. Eric Bieniemy (Offensive Coordinator, Washington Commanders)
Eric Bieniemy, the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders, has long been regarded as one of the brightest offensive minds in the NFL, though his head coaching opportunities have remained limited. Bieniemy served as the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs under Andy Reid, helping to design one of the league’s most potent offenses over the past several seasons. His experience coaching Patrick Mahomes and other star players could translate well to Dallas, where Prescott is in need of a system that maximizes his strengths.
Bieniemy’s aggressive, pass-heavy offense could be a good fit for a Cowboys team that has not fully realized its offensive potential. Bieniemy is also known for his leadership and player development, which could help bring the best out of Prescott, Lamb, and the rest of the offense. With the Cowboys’ rich history of offense-driven football, Bieniemy could provide the spark the team needs to contend for championships in the years to come.
5. Harbaugh Brothers: Jim Harbaugh (Head Coach, Michigan) or John Harbaugh (Head Coach, Baltimore Ravens)
Although both Harbaugh brothers have strong current positions—Jim at Michigan and John with the Baltimore Ravens—both bring a wealth of experience, success, and a Super Bowl pedigree that would make either one a formidable candidate for the Cowboys’ head coach position. Jim Harbaugh’s relentless work ethic and intense focus on discipline and toughness have led to success at both the NFL and college levels, including leading the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance.
John Harbaugh, meanwhile, has a proven track record of success with the Ravens, including a Super Bowl win, and his leadership has fostered strong team dynamics and resilience. The Cowboys could certainly benefit from his experience managing both offense and defense. Either Harbaugh would bring a championship-focused mentality to the team, along with an established history of winning.
Conclusion
The Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a crossroads, with a talented roster capable of contending for championships. As the team continues to evaluate its options for the future, there are several potential candidates who could help remodel the Cowboys in the mold of a true contender. From internal options like Dan Quinn to outside candidates such as Sean Payton and Eric Bieniemy, the Cowboys have plenty of options to consider if they choose to move on from McCarthy. Whatever direction the team ultimately chooses, it will need a leader who can unify the team, maximize its talent, and guide it to long-awaited success in the postseason.
