The Dallas Cowboys have reportedly rejected the Chicago Bears’ request to interview head coach Mike McCarthy, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Schefter earlier reported that the Bears’ request went unanswered by Tuesday afternoon after they initially asked for permission on Monday.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones mentioned on Sunday that he hadn’t yet made a decision about McCarthy’s future and was okay with other teams speaking to him, as reported by The Athletic’s Jon Machota.
McCarthy, 61, is set to have his contract expire next Tuesday, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
The Cowboys missed the playoffs for the first time in four seasons this year after losing Dak Prescott to a midseason hamstring injury.
In McCarthy’s five seasons as head coach, the Cowboys made the playoffs three times, though they only won one postseason game during that time, and had two losing seasons without Prescott.
McCarthy said after the Cowboys’ season-ending loss to the Washington Commanders that he “absolutely” wanted to return for another year with the team.
“I have a lot invested here. And the Cowboys have a lot invested in me,” he said, per Reuters.
If the Cowboys decide to part ways with McCarthy, not allowing him to speak to other teams early in the offseason could hurt his chances of getting other head coaching offers before teams hire candidates.
The Bears are reportedly considering McCarthy along with other potential candidates, including Detroit Lions coordinators Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn, Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, and former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel.
If the Bears want to act quickly to secure a coach in high demand, like Vrabel, who is also a target for the New England Patriots, they may have to make a decision before McCarthy becomes available.
There’s also a chance the Cowboys are still focused on finalizing the terms of McCarthy’s next contract. Jones expressed confidence in his head coach throughout the season, even with the team’s struggles without Prescott.
If Dallas doesn’t make a decision by next week, Jones risks McCarthy becoming available and attracting interest from multiple teams looking for a new coach this offseason.
It would also give Chicago another chance to hire the veteran coach, if the team is willing to wait.
