Speculation Runs Wild: Could Steve Sarkisian Be Jerry Jones’ Secret Target for the Cowboys?

The Rumor That Has Everyone Talking
ESPN’s Mike Greenberg has stirred the pot with a bold, if admittedly “reckless,” prediction: Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones might have his sights set on Texas Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian as a potential replacement for current Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy. This explosive claim, delivered during Thursday’s episode of Get Up, has set the sports world abuzz.

Inside Jerry Jones’ World
The Cowboys have been in the spotlight this week as Jerry Jones and the team’s management conduct evaluations of the 2024 season with Mike McCarthy. McCarthy’s current contract is set to expire on January 14, leaving room for speculation about his future. However, there’s no concrete evidence that Dallas is actively pursuing other coaching candidates. Reports of the Cowboys doing “homework” on potential replacements remain unsubstantiated, making Greenberg’s speculation all the more tantalizing.

Why Steve Sarkisian?
Sarkisian’s rise as the head coach of the Texas Longhorns has been nothing short of impressive, leading the team to a College Football Playoff semifinal against Ohio State at AT&T Stadium this Friday. With Jones set to attend the game, the rumor mill is working overtime. Greenberg posits that Jones could be waiting for Sarkisian’s season to end to initiate discussions about bringing the Texas coach to Dallas.

According to Greenberg, “I’m speculating—recklessly perhaps—that Jerry Jones has someone in mind that he wants to see if he can get. And if he can’t get that person, he still wants Mike McCarthy.”

No Evidence, Big Buzz
The glaring issue? There’s no actual evidence to support this theory. Greenberg’s prediction seems to be more of an entertaining hypothetical than a credible report. Nevertheless, the idea of Jones orchestrating a high-stakes coaching coup has captured attention across the league.

The Longhorns’ Response
Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte was quick to dismiss the chatter, calling it “stupid” and emphasizing that the Longhorns are focused on their upcoming game. “We’ve got a game to play,” Del Conte stated, refusing to engage with the rumor.

Jerry’s Reputation Fuels Speculation
Part of what makes Greenberg’s speculation so intriguing is Jerry Jones’ reputation for bold, headline-grabbing decisions. Jones has never been one to shy away from taking risks if he believes it could benefit the Cowboys. Whether or not Sarkisian is on his radar, the idea of a blockbuster move like this feels quintessentially “Jerry.”

What’s Really Going On?
In reality, the Cowboys’ current discussions with McCarthy likely center around a contract extension, not a secret plot to lure Sarkisian away from Austin. McCarthy has led Dallas to consecutive playoff appearances, and there’s no clear indication that his job is in jeopardy.

A Story Without Substance?
While entertaining, Greenberg’s theory lacks substance. It’s a reminder of how speculation can take on a life of its own, especially when it involves high-profile figures like Jerry Jones and Steve Sarkisian.

Conclusion: Just Fodder Before the Big Game?
For now, the Sarkisian-to-Dallas narrative remains just that—a narrative. With no concrete evidence or credible reports to back it up, it’s little more than pregame chatter. But in the world of sports, where rumors often fuel drama and excitement, even the most “reckless” speculation can capture our imagination.

As the Longhorns gear up for their playoff clash and the Cowboys prepare for a critical offseason, one thing is certain: the buzz around Jerry Jones’ next move isn’t going away anytime soon.