Mike McCarthy addressed the media in Frisco, Texas, discussing his belief that the Dallas Cowboys can achieve postseason success, something that has eluded the team for almost 30 years. Despite a disappointing loss to Green Bay, McCarthy will return for his fifth season as coach after a meeting with owner and general manager Jerry Jones. The Cowboys won the NFC East and had a 16-game winning streak at home, but became the first No. 2 seed to lose to the conference’s last team since the 14-team format was adopted in 2020. McCarthy acknowledged that while the team has established a championship program, they have not yet crossed the threshold of winning playoff games. McCarthy won a Super Bowl and went to three other NFC championship games during his time as coach of the Packers, which is why Jones hired him in 2020. Despite being responsible for the first team with three consecutive 12-win playoff seasons not to reach a conference championship game, McCarthy takes no responsibility for the team’s previous failures. He believes they are in a position to learn and grow from their recent loss and build on it.
During a three-hour meeting on Wednesday, McCarthy and Jones discussed the team’s progress and future plans. Following the meeting, Jones issued a statement expressing his disappointment with the playoff loss but also stating that he believed in McCarthy’s leadership and the benefit of continuing under his guidance. McCarthy appreciated Jones’ direct approach and willingness to discuss a range of topics related to the football operation. Although Jones did not mention an extension for McCarthy, who is entering the final year of his contract, McCarthy remained confident in the team’s direction and his own abilities as a coach. Despite quarterback Dak Prescott’s inconsistent postseason play, McCarthy expressed his belief in Prescott’s potential and the future of the team’s offense.
