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Many members of Cowboys Nation breathed a collective sigh of relief on Wednesday when former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick decided to return to coaching. After less than a year out of the profession, the current TV analyst who just so happens to sport two hands worth of Super Bowl rings (six as HC of the Patriots, two more as a Giants assistant) is back in the coaching ranks. So why would such news make Cowboys fans happy when Mike McCarthy hasn’t been let go?
Many were concerned that his resume and the affinity of Cowboys owner Jerry Jones to favor pedigree would mean that the now 72-year old would have the inside track on a vacancy with Dallas should it arrive as many expect it to come January. Jones has reiterated recently that it’s not set in stone McCarthy will be shown the door when his contract expires, and that may prove to be the case. That would be disappointing for many fans who want to see the team move in a new direction. Many had concerns over Belichick’s age and how long he’d be a viable coach, along with the fact that the Patriots offense struggled after Tom Brady left for Tampa Bay.
So with no Belichick on the table, here’s an updated look at the top candidates to replace McCarthy when the call comes in a few weeks. This week’s rankings includes a new face, Minnesota OC Wes Phillips.
Honorable Mentions:
Liam Coen, OC, Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Last Week: Honorable Mention
Ryan Grubb, Seattle Seahawks OC | Last Week: Honorable Mention
Ejiro Evero, Carolina Panthers, DC | Last Week: Honorable Mention
Jesse Minter, Los Angeles Chargers, DC | Last Week: Honorable Mention
Vance Joseph, Denver Broncos, DC | Last Week: Honorable Mention
Lincoln Riley, USC, HC | Last Week: Honorable Mention
Adam Stenovich, Green Bay Packers OC | Last Week: Honorable Mention
University of Georgia head coach Kirby Smart | Last Week: Honorable Mention