When it comes to Jerry Jones, one thing is certain: you can never take his words at face value without a healthy dose of skepticism. The Dallas Cowboys owner, a master of media manipulation, recently described his team as a “365-day soap opera.” True to form, Jones continues to stir the pot with perfectly timed soundbites that spark conversations and keep the Cowboys firmly in the spotlight. Say what you will about his football strategies, but when it comes to controlling narratives and captivating audiences, few can rival his prowess.

This time, Jones’ words are raising eyebrows for what they seem to suggest about the future of head coach Mike McCarthy. During a recent appearance on 105.3 The Fan, Jones heaped praise on McCarthy, making it sound almost inevitable that the coach is staying put—despite a season that saw the Cowboys eliminated from playoff contention before Week 16 even began.

“I can’t tell you how proud I am of the way the coaching staff, led by Mike McCarthy, the way that the leadership on this team, and really proud of these young players,” Jones said. “They just are growing mentally and physically by leaps and bounds, makes me think we’ve got an outstanding future ahead of us.”

The phrase “outstanding future ahead of us” is particularly telling. It’s hard to interpret that statement as anything other than Jones signaling his intent to keep McCarthy in charge—and perhaps even extend his contract before the 2025 NFL season.

For McCarthy, who has faced no shortage of criticism since taking over as head coach, this public endorsement is no small gesture. The timing couldn’t be better either, as it comes during a season where many had begun to speculate about potential changes in Dallas’ leadership. Jones’ remarks seem to squash any notion that McCarthy’s tenure is in jeopardy, instead positioning him as a central figure in the team’s long-term plans.

The feel-good vibes didn’t stop with Jones’ radio interview. Cameras caught a heartwarming moment between Jones and McCarthy in the Cowboys’ locker room following the team’s most recent game. The two were seen sharing a hug and a positive exchange of words, though the audio wasn’t captured. Still, the visible camaraderie between owner and coach speaks volumes.

For a coach whose team has fallen short of postseason expectations, moments like these can be career-defining. Jones’ public backing not only boosts McCarthy’s morale but also sends a clear message to fans, players, and the rest of the organization: the front office believes in this coach and his vision.

Of course, the soap opera that is the Dallas Cowboys is far from over. There’s still uncertainty surrounding the team’s offseason plans, and as always, Jones has a flair for keeping everyone guessing. However, the narrative seems to be shifting in McCarthy’s favor. His stock is undoubtedly on the rise within the organization, and it wouldn’t be surprising if a contract extension is announced sooner rather than later.

Until then, McCarthy can enjoy what might be his most heartwarming Christmas Eve yet, buoyed by his boss’s glowing praise and the prospect of an “outstanding future” in Dallas. Whether the Cowboys can capitalize on that future remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: for now, Jerry Jones is firmly in Mike McCarthy’s corner. And with Jones steering the ship, that corner is a very good place to be.