Cowboys’ Head Coach Search Heats Up with Pete Carroll Interest

DALLAS, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys‘ search for a new head coach has taken an unexpected turn, with reports surfacing of an informal conversation between team owner Jerry Jones and former Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll. The discussion, described as “informal but legitimate” by Nick Harris of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, adds another layer of intrigue to the ongoing coaching saga.

The Cowboys have been in the market for a new head coach since parting ways with Mike McCarthy earlier this month. Offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, who has spent the past three seasons with the team, remains a leading candidate. Schottenheimer previously worked under Carroll in Seattle from 2018 to 2020, fueling speculation that Jones’ conversation with Carroll may have centered on Schottenheimer’s potential promotion.

Carroll, 73, is reportedly eager to return to the NFL after a year away from coaching. With 18 seasons of head coaching experience and a Super Bowl victory in 2013, Carroll brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record. However, no formal interview has been scheduled, and the Cowboys’ search remains wide open.

Jones has already conducted in-person interviews with Seattle assistant Leslie Frazier, former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh, and Schottenheimer. Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, whose team is still in the playoffs, has also had a virtual interview. Earlier in the search, Jones reportedly spoke with Colorado coach Deion Sanders, though those discussions have not progressed.

The Cowboys’ head coaching position is considered one of the most coveted in the NFL, despite challenges such as limited salary cap space and a highly competitive NFC East division. The team boasts a strong foundation, including franchise quarterback Dak Prescott, standout wideout CeeDee Lamb, and emerging stars like linebacker Micah Parsons and cornerback Trevon Diggs.

Jones, who also serves as the team’s general manager, has a history of promoting from within. If Schottenheimer is hired, he would follow in the footsteps of Dave Campo and Jason Garrett, both of whom were elevated from the Cowboys’ staff to head coach. Carroll’s potential involvement, whether as a candidate or an advisor, adds a new dimension to the search as the Cowboys aim to end their long drought without an NFC title game appearance.