As the Dallas Cowboys navigate the 2024 NFL season, questions about head coach Mike McCarthy’s future loom large. McCarthy, coaching in a contract year, has faced scrutiny as the Cowboys aim to maintain playoff contention. Speculation about his replacement has spanned high-profile names like Ben Johnson and even Bill Belichick, but Cowboys owner Jerry Jones may have a surprise candidate in mind—franchise legend Jason Witten.
Despite Witten’s Hall of Fame-worthy career as a tight end, his coaching experience is minimal. Currently, he is the head coach at Liberty Christian School, a high school program in Texas. While Witten has found success at that level, the leap from high school football to the NFL is monumental, and few teams would entertain such a move. Yet, Jerry Jones has always operated unconventionally, and his recent comments suggest he sees Witten’s coaching potential in an entirely different light.
Jones’ High Praise for Witten
Speaking on 105.3 The Fan, Jones didn’t mince words when asked if he thought Witten could one day become an NFL head coach.
> “Yes, without hesitation, yes,” Jones said. “He has something that you can’t draw up. He reminds me a lot of our other tight end who is head coach up there in Detroit right now (Dan Campbell).”
The comparison to Campbell is significant. Campbell, currently the head coach of the Detroit Lions, has garnered widespread praise for transforming the franchise into a legitimate contender. However, Campbell spent over a decade in NFL coaching roles, including as an assistant and interim head coach, before taking the reins in Detroit. Witten, in contrast, lacks professional coaching experience.
Jones Sees Unique Qualities in Witten
Jones elaborated on his admiration for Witten, citing qualities that extend beyond X’s and O’s.
> “Jason is very sophisticated when it comes to understanding football and all the nuances,” Jones explained. “But more important than anything, he really does understand the physical and the mentality of being physical and that part of it. Without a question, he could become, above high school, (an NFL) coach. He has extraordinary work ethic. (…) He can be a top coach.”
Jones’ comments reflect his belief that Witten’s leadership, work ethic, and football IQ could bridge the gap between his limited coaching experience and the NFL’s demands.
Is Witten Ready for the Big Leagues?
While Witten’s accomplishments as a player and his early success as a high school coach are commendable, the NFL is an entirely different arena. High school coaching involves a vastly different level of strategy, talent management, and competition. Transitioning directly from that level to an NFL head coaching role would be unprecedented.
However, Jones’ admiration for Witten’s intangibles may carry weight in Dallas. Known for his willingness to take risks—such as hiring Barry Switzer in the 1990s or drafting controversial players—Jones could entertain an unconventional choice like Witten.
What’s Next for the Cowboys?
With the Cowboys sitting at a crossroads, much depends on how McCarthy’s squad performs down the stretch. If Dallas falls short of expectations, the team could be in the market for a new head coach. While proven candidates like Johnson or others with established NFL track records may seem more logical, Jones’ track record of bold moves means Witten’s name could remain in the conversation.
Whether it’s in Dallas or elsewhere, Jones’ belief in Witten’s coaching potential adds an intriguing layer to the Cowboys’ future.
