If the Dallas Cowboys choose to move on from head coach Mike McCarthy, there are several strong candidates available who are not If the Dallas Cowboys choose to move on from head coach Mike McCarthy, there are several strong candidates available who are not Bill Belichick. Belichick.

The Cowboys faced a humiliating defeat at home on October 13, losing to the Detroit Lions 47-9.

Amidst this challenging season, speculation has intensified about whether this will be McCarthy’s last year with the team. Following such a significant loss, the likelihood of a coaching change seems more plausible.

Given McCarthy’s uncertain contract status, the Cowboys’ management might opt for a new leader instead of renewing his contract.

While former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is frequently mentioned in discussions about potential Cowboys coaches, other candidates are also gaining attention as possible replacements for McCarthy.

As Jerry Jones celebrated his 82nd birthday while watching the Cowboys struggle against the Lions, Detroit’s offensive coordinator Ben Johnson likely caught his attention.

NFL analyst Sayre Bedinger highlighted Johnson as the top choice to replace McCarthy in a feature for Sport DFW on October 17.

Bedinger noted, “Considering how the Detroit Lions have performed offensively in recent years, Ben Johnson is expected to be one of the most sought-after head coaching candidates until he accepts a position.”

Johnson has previously declined job offers while waiting for the right opportunity, and many believe that the Cowboys would be the perfect fit for him.

Bedinger emphasized that Johnson has transformed the Lions’ offense into a powerhouse, stating, “They distribute the ball better than almost any team in the league, and few defenses can keep up with them.”

John Buhler from FanSided also listed Johnson as a potential replacement for McCarthy, expressing surprise that Johnson returned to the Lions for another season as their offensive coordinator.

Buhler remarked, “What I appreciate about Johnson is his talent for putting players in situations to succeed.

He effectively develops the talent that general manager Brad Holmes provides, making him a good fit for the Cowboys.

He would likely collaborate well with Stephen Jones and Will McClay without challenging Jerry Jones too much.”

Maitland Rutledge from The Laundry Hat also identified Johnson as a candidate for the Cowboys’ coaching position.

He suggested that if Johnson were to join Dallas, the team’s offensive issues might resolve quickly.

“Give him Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and a new starting running back, and Dallas could score points rapidly,” Rutledge predicted.

Looking at other potential candidates, Rutledge mentioned Bobby Slowik, the offensive coordinator for the Houston Texans.

He believes Slowik will be a hot commodity during the 2025 offseason, as many teams will likely seek interviews with him for head coaching roles.

In considering options outside the NFL, Rutledge pointed to USC head coach Lincoln Riley as another possibility. “Hiring a college coach for his first pro job is risky, but Riley is eager to get a shot in the NFL.

Growing up in Lubbock and attending Texas Tech, he would find the Cowboys an ideal team to start his pro coaching career,” Rutledge explained.

As the Cowboys ponder their future direction, the conversation around potential coaching replacements for McCarthy continues to gain momentum.

Many fans and analysts believe that a fresh perspective could reignite the team’s success, especially given the recent struggles on the field.

With several promising candidates emerging, the front office may have a tough decision ahead.

In conclusion, while Bill Belichick remains a popular name in discussions about the Cowboys’ coaching future, several other strong candidates could bring a new approach to the team.

Ben Johnson’s success with the Lions, Bobby Slowik’s rising profile, and Lincoln Riley’s ambition all present intriguing possibilities for Dallas as they consider their next steps.

With the season still unfolding, the Cowboys have time to evaluate their options and determine the best path forward.

The potential for a coaching change could signal a new era for the franchise, bringing hope and renewed energy to a team that seeks to reclaim its place among the NFL elite.

The upcoming months will be crucial for the Cowboys as they navigate these decisions and aim to build a competitive roster that can contend for championships in the future.