Despite missing the postseason, the Dallas Cowboys managed to grab headlines thanks to Jerry Jones’ controversial head coaching hire. While all signs were pointing to Mike McCarthy’s return for another season, the Cowboys parted ways with their head coach of the last five years. They promoted offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer to replace McCarthy for his first head coaching opportunity.
Many Cowboys fans were understandably disappointed with the decision. If the team wasn’t going to hire a more experienced, higher-profile head coach, why move on from McCarthy?
ESPN’s Todd Archer shed some light on this question on Thursday. He revealed that the main sticking point in negotiations between McCarthy and Jones was the length of the agreement. While Jerry wanted McCarthy to sign a three-year contract, the experienced head coach insisted on a five-year deal, leading to the sides’ going their separate ways.
“While no financial figures were discussed, the length of a proposed agreement was a sticking point. McCarthy was seeking a five-year deal, according to multiple sources, while Jones was sticking with three. At an impasse, both sides agreed it was time to move on.”
– Todd Archer, ESPN
Jones preferring a shorter-term deal makes some sense. Dak Prescott is under contract for four more seasons and Jones’ desire to re-evaluate where the team is after three years is understandable.
At the same time, Schottenheimer signed a four-year deal. Could the Cowboys and McCarthy not find a common ground and sign a four-year contract to match up with Prescott’s massive deal?
Refusing to give McCarthy his desired length of contract to then make the questionable move to hire Schottenheimer is admittedly a risky one for Jones. This decision was obviously primarily made with financial calculations in mind and having ultimate authority over the team as the other main factor.
While opting for a low-profile, cheaper candidate like Schottenheimer can be criticized, it’s perhaps understandable that Jones allowed McCarthy to leave.
