Mike McCarthy and the Dallas Cowboys Part Ways: A Franchise at a Crossroads
The Dallas Cowboys have officially decided to part ways with head coach Mike McCarthy, citing contractual reasons as the primary factor. While the decision marks the end of McCarthy’s tenure with the team, it also sets the stage for a new coaching search that could unexpectedly ripple across the NFL, even impacting his former team, the Green Bay Packers.
Rich Bisaccia Emerges as a Top Candidate for the Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys reporter Joseph Hoyt has revealed that Rich Bisaccia, the current assistant head coach and special teams coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, is now on the Cowboys’ radar as a potential successor to McCarthy.
“Dallas, per a source, has had some level of interest in Green Bay Packers special teams coach Rich Bisaccia,” Hoyt reported. “He’s another person with familiarity with the franchise and the Jones family in particular. He was the Cowboys’ special teams coach from 2013-17.”
This connection is no coincidence. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is known for prioritizing familiarity when making critical personnel decisions. This pattern makes Bisaccia, along with current offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer and former Cowboys OC Kellen Moore, top contenders for the role.
A Familiar Face with a Storied History
Bisaccia’s ties to the Cowboys span five seasons (2013-2017), during which he served under then-head coach Jason Garrett as the special teams coordinator and assistant head coach. His time in Dallas laid a strong foundation of trust and respect with the organization.
Despite the Cowboys’ interest, no formal interview request has been made yet. However, if they choose to pursue him, the Packers cannot deny the request, as the move would constitute a promotion to head coach.
Rich Bisaccia’s Proven NFL Experience
Rich Bisaccia boasts an impressive 20-year career in the NFL. Beginning his coaching journey in 2002, he has contributed to multiple franchises, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, San Diego Chargers, Dallas Cowboys, and Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders.
Bisaccia garnered league-wide respect during his stint as the Raiders’ interim head coach in 2021. After Jon Gruden’s resignation, Bisaccia stepped in and guided the team to a 7-5 record and a playoff berth, proving his ability to lead under challenging circumstances. Although he interviewed for the Raiders’ full-time head coach position in 2022, the organization ultimately chose Josh McDaniels—a decision that has since resulted in McDaniels’ firing.
Since joining the Packers in 2022, Bisaccia initially served as special teams coordinator. In 2023, the Packers elevated him to assistant head coach, underscoring his leadership and impact on the organization.
Special Teams Performance: Room for Improvement
While Rich Bisaccia is highly regarded for his leadership and experience, his tenure with the Packers has not been without challenges. Despite being the highest-paid special teams coordinator in the league, the Packers’ special teams unit has struggled to meet expectations, with key mistakes contributing to their most recent playoff loss against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Nevertheless, his ability to inspire players and steady teams during turbulent times keeps him in high demand across the league. In fact, Bisaccia has already been interviewed twice for head coaching roles, including the Indianapolis Colts’ position in 2023.
What Lies Ahead for the Dallas Cowboys and Rich Bisaccia?
The Dallas Cowboys’ coaching search is in full swing, and Rich Bisaccia’s name is one of the most intriguing options. Should the Cowboys formally pursue him, it would mark a reunion with a coach who has deep ties to the organization and a proven ability to navigate adversity.
For the Packers, losing Bisaccia could leave a significant leadership void, particularly as they continue to address the performance of their special teams.
As the coaching carousel continues to spin, all eyes are on the Cowboys and their next move—a decision that could reshape the franchise’s future and alter the trajectory of Rich Bisaccia’s career.