Cowboys Rumors: Bill Belichick Could Be Near Top of HC Wishlist After McCarthy Exit

Bill Belichick "could be near the top" of Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones' list of desired head coaching candidates, according to CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones.

"Belichick and Jones have had a good relationship over the decades, and sources last month indicated Belichick had interest in the Dallas job should it come open," Jones wrote.

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported on Monday that Mike McCarthy won't return as the Cowboys' head coach in 2025 after the two sides couldn't reach an agreement on a new contract.

After Belichick's legendary tenure with the New England Patriots came to an end following the 2023 season, he signed a five-year deal to become North Carolina's new head coach on Dec. 11.

Despite his current status with the Tar Heels, a move back to the NFL can still occur.

Jones noted Monday that Belichick has a $10 million buyout if he were to leave North Carolina, which drops to $1 million after June 1.

The 72-year-old's openness to moving on from the Tar Heels will be a factor if he's considered for the Cowboys' job, as Dianna Russini of The Athletic revealed that he has "no plans" to return to the NFL.

Dallas could be patient in its head coaching search even if it isn't able to land Belichick.

Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports reported that the Cowboys are prohibited from speaking to Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, two of the top available coaching options, until after the end of Detroit's season due to the timing of letting McCarthy leave.

After three consecutive 12-5 seasons, the Cowboys missed the playoffs in 2024 with a 7-10 record. They were hampered by injuries on both sides of the ball and particularly struggled on defense, allowing 355.2 yards and 27.5 points per game.

If Dallas is searching for a defensive-minded coach with plenty of experience, it's easy to see why the team would show interest in Belichick.