Jerry Jones makes clear statement over future of Dallas Cowboys head coach position after Mike McCarthy exit

Following the announcement on Monday that Mike McCarthy would not be returning as head coach, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shared his opinion on the team’s head coaching position.

The veteran coach will be a free agent on Tuesday after Jones and McCarthy were unable to come to an agreement on a new deal.

The 82-year-old Jones discussed the Cowboys-McCarthy split in a statement.

“Throughout Mike McCarthy’s tenure here, including the last several weeks, I have been very complimentary of the job he has done,” Jones stated.

“That has been true of our performance throughout that time, our culture and cohesiveness as a team, Mike’s credentials and success history, and him personally as an amazing person.

“I have great respect for Mike, and he has led the team through some very unique and challenging times during his tenure.”

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According to Jones, a “joint review” ultimately determined that it was time for both parties to move on.

“Prior to reaching the point of contract negotiations, though, it became mutually clear that it would be better for each of us to head in a different direction,” Jones stated.

“Thank you, Mike. I hope the best for him, his wife, Jessica, and their family.

“They have been a wonderful part of our community here.”

Before his career ended following a 7-10 season, McCarthy coached Dallas for five years, bringing the team to three consecutive 12-win seasons.

Jones revealed that the Cowboys will start the process of finding a new head coach.

“We will commence a search process immediately to hire the next head coach of the Dallas Cowboys,” Jones stated.

What Dallas will be looking for in a new head coach is unclear.

But by waiting a week to let go of McCarthy, the Cowboys have missed the opportunity to ask for interviews with coaching prospects who are on a bye, like defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson of the Detroit Lions.

Only until the Lions’ season is over can Dallas speak with them.

McCarthy will be considered for the head coaching positions with the New Orleans Saints and Chicago Bears.

Last week, Chicago formally requested to talk with McCarthy, but the Cowboys turned it down.

Dallas is searching for a coach who can guide the team to a Super Bowl for the first time in thirty years.