Dec 15, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy walks off the field after the game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

nfl

Mike McCarthy Chicago Bound? Sources hint at possible move

Chicago Bears request to interview Mike McCarthy as head coach

Dec 15, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy walks off the field after the game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

The Chicago Bears have formally asked the Dallas Cowboys for permission to interview head coach Mike McCarthy for their open head coaching role. This request comes as McCarthy’s contract nears its January 14 expiration date, with no public decision yet from Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.

Bears seek stability after turbulent seasons

The Bears, still reeling from the Matt Eberflus era, are keen to secure a leader with proven experience. McCarthy, who led the Cowboys to three consecutive 12-win seasons before a 7-10 campaign in 2024, fits their mold. His ability to develop quarterbacks like Dak Prescott is seen as a potential boon for Chicago’s young talent, including rookie Caleb Williams. The team hopes to act swiftly, interviewing several candidates before finalizing their choice.

McCarthy’s tenure and uncertain future with Dallas

McCarthy just wrapped up his fifth season with the Cowboys, a tenure highlighted by consistent playoff appearances until this past season. Despite a rough 2024 marked by injuries, including Prescott’s season-ending hamstring tear, the team rallied late in the year. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush led them to four wins in their final five games, signaling the team hadn’t entirely given up.

Chicago Bears have sought permission to interview Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy and are awaiting a response from Dallas, sources tell me and @toddarcher.

If the Cowboys don’t allow permission this week, the Bears could interview McCarthy after his exclusive negotiating window… pic.twitter.com/zoS7vHO5mF
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 6, 2025

Jerry Jones has remained non-committal about McCarthy’s future, stating, “I don’t know that I am considering making a change is really what I’m trying to say.” Reports indicate McCarthy wishes to stay in Dallas, but the looming interest from Chicago could accelerate Jones’ decision.

Challenges for Jerry Jones

Jones faces a complex choice: allow McCarthy to interview, signaling he won’t be retained, or block the request and risk backlash while leaving McCarthy’s status unresolved. Blocking the interview without re-signing McCarthy would add further scrutiny to Jones’ handling of coaching transitions, as seen during Jason Garrett’s exit in 2020.

The Bears’ urgency in their search

Chicago’s request for McCarthy is part of a broader strategy to find a head coach who can maximize their potential. Other candidates include Detroit Lions OC Ben Johnson, New York Giants OC Mike Kafka, and Steelers OC Arthur Smith. The team’s performance showed promise early in the season with a 4-2 start, but they faltered, losing ten straight before a morale-boosting Week 18 victory against Green Bay.

McCarthy’s experience coaching in cold-weather conditions and his track record in the NFC North make him a logical candidate for the Bears. If hired, he could bring stability to a franchise looking to contend in a competitive division.

What’s next for Dallas and McCarthy?

The Cowboys are expected to meet with McCarthy soon to discuss his future. Whether they extend his contract or let him explore other opportunities will shape the offseason for both Dallas and Chicago. As of now, the Bears can wait until January 14 to proceed without needing Dallas’ approval.

Image: Imagn

Bears

Chicago Bears

Mike McCarthy

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
Got into sports media the same way most people do: by (fortunate) accident. Started with SEO writing, took on a few sports gigs, and now here we are! I cover games, trades, player drama—whatever needs words.
Favorite part? The chaos. One day it’s a blockbuster trade, the next it’s a goat running onto the field. Never boring.
Message to readers: If you want deep analysis, there are people for that. If you want sharp, no-BS writing that actually makes sense, stick around.