Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy and defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer have opted out of attending the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, as reported by ESPN’s Todd Archer.
Instead of making the trip to Indianapolis, McCarthy and Zimmer will remain in Dallas to focus on crucial tasks such as finalizing the coaching staff and refining the team’s defensive scheme. McCarthy explained that given the current demands in Dallas, it’s more practical for them to stay put rather than attending the Combine.
Despite their absence, McCarthy and Zimmer will still conduct player interviews digitally and stay updated on draft prospects by reviewing workout tapes.
This isn’t the first time McCarthy has skipped the Combine; he also missed last year’s event to concentrate on adjustments to the offensive scheme in preparation for his inaugural season as the play caller.
While he briefly attended the Indianapolis event to meet with the media, his primary focus remained on working with the offensive coaching staff back in Dallas.
Scheduled from February 26 to March 4 in Indianapolis, this year’s Scouting Combine will proceed without McCarthy and Zimmer’s physical presence.
The Dallas Cowboys are entering the 2024 season with renewed determination following a string of three consecutive 12-5 seasons.
Despite leading the league in scoring with an average of 29.9 points per game, their 2023 campaign ended in disappointment with an early playoff exit at the hands of the Green Bay Packers in the wild-card round.
Heading into the new season, the Cowboys boast a revamped coaching staff, with Zimmer joining as defensive coordinator after his tenure with the Minnesota Vikings from 2014 to 2021. Steve Shimko has been appointed as the new offensive coordinator.
With the Combine approaching, McCarthy’s focus now shifts to ensuring his team is adequately prepared while entrusting his staff to handle scouting duties in his absence.
