Cowboys Rumors: Mike McCarthy, Jerry Jones Haven't Had 'Substantial' Contract Talks

Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy and team owner Jerry Jones haven't had "substantial discussions" about McCarthy's contract recently, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Schefter reported Saturday on NFL Countdown that it's "in question" whether McCarthy and the Cowboys strike a bargain on a new deal given their lack of communication:

The report is a little surprising because Jones has spoken highly of McCarthy's work throughout the 2024 NFL season, despite Dallas eventually going 7-10 and missing the playoffs.

"Well, I feel good about Mike McCarthy, and the main thing is that I like that job that he's done," Jones said Dec. 31 during one of his regular appearances on 105.3 The Fan (via ESPN's Todd Archer). "It's unfortunate we're having the year we had, but I feel good about Mike."

On Friday, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero also reported that Jones and McCarthy "remain open to moving forward together" and that conversations over a new contract were expected to begin soon.

The Cowboys are working against a ticking clock.

McCarthy's deal expires Tuesday, at which point he'll become a free agent. He's already the subject of outside interest, with Dallas reportedly denying the Chicago Bears' request to interview him. Starting early next week, the the Super Bowl XLV champion won't have any restrictions in pursing available coaching vacancies.

Given that firm expiration date, things should move pretty quickly between McCarthy and the Cowboys. It helps that he has been there for five years. He and Jones will be going into the formal negotiations with eyes wide open.

At the very least, fans should know by Tuesday whether McCarthy will be back in Dallas for a sixth season.