NFL News: Cowboys' Mike McCarthy Reportedly Targeted for HC Interview by Bears

The Chicago Bears are seeking permission to speak with Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter and Todd Archer.

The Cowboys had yet to respond to the Bears' request as of 4 p.m. ET Monday, per Schefter.

McCarthy is currently signed with the Cowboys through Jan. 14.

Dallas owner and general manager Jerry Jones said Sunday he had not yet made a decision as to who would be coaching the team next season, per The Athletic's Jon Machota.

McCarthy led the Cowboys to a 7-10 record in 2024 as a season-ending injury to Dak Prescott led to the team missing the playoffs for the first time in four seasons.

He said after the season wrapped up with a Week 18 loss to the Washington Commanders that he "absolutely" wanted to remain with the Cowboys.

"I have a lot invested here, and the Cowboys have a lot invested in me," McCarthy said on Sunday, per DallasCowboys.com's Tommy Yarrish. "And then there's a personal side to all these decisions. So, they all point in the right direction."

McCarthy then mentioned his Super Bowl victory with the Green Bay Packers at AT&T Stadium during the 2010 season as he made his case for the franchise to keep him on.

"I don't like to talk about myself that way, but I'll just be clear. I'm a winner. I know how to win," McCarthy said. "I've won a championship. I won a championship in this building. And that's who I am.

"We'll see where it goes."

The Bears are searching for a permanent replacement for Matt Eberflus, who was fired after Chicago's 4-8 start to the 2024 season.

The Athletic's Kevin Fishbain and Adam Jahns recently reported that interim head coach Thomas Brown, who marked his first win of the season in Week 18, "won't be among the favorites to land the job."

The Bears have also requested to interview Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores and Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, per Schefter.

Chicago is looking for a head coach who can help rookie quarterback Caleb Williams take another step forward in 2025. McCarthy's experience, which includes NFL head coaching and quarterback coaching jobs, could make him an appealing candidate for that role.

McCarthy isn't the only member of the Cowboys' coaching staff awaiting a decision on his future. Defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer and special teams coordinator John Fassel are also on expiring contracts, ESPN's Todd Archer previously reported.