Jerry Jones on Mike McCarthy departure: 'Different direction' better for both sides

Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones released a statement on Monday afternoon about the decision to move on from Mike McCarthy as the team's head coach.

McCarthy's five-year contract with the Cowboys is set to end on Tuesday and will not be renewed after a disappointing season where Dallas missed the playoffs.

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In the statement, Jones said he wished McCarthy and his family the best, but it "became mutually clear" that the Cowboys and the head coach should go in different directions.

The Cowboys have not won a Super Bowl since 1996.

Since that season, the Cowboys have had seven different head coaches.

Jerry Jones Statement on Mike McCarthy's Departure

What they're saying:

"Throughout Mike McCarthy’s tenure here, including the last several weeks, I have been very complimentary of the job he has done. That has applied to our record over that time period, our team unity and culture, Mike’s qualifications and track record of success, and on a personal level as a tremendous human being," said Jones in a statement. "I have great respect for Mike, and he has led the team through some very unique and challenging times during his tenure.

Over the past week, Mike and I had the opportunity to conduct a joint review of all aspects of the past season, our players and staff, and also spent considerable time discussing the road forward for the team. These discussions were thorough and received an appropriate amount of time and depth to cover.  Prior to reaching the point of contract negotiations, though, it became mutually clear that it would be better for each of us to head in a different direction. I thank Mike and wish him, his wife Jessica and their family the best. They have been a wonderful part of our community here. 

We will commence a search process immediately to hire the next head coach of the Dallas Cowboys."

Mike McCarthy's time with Dallas Cowboys

McCarthy has been the Cowboys head coach since the 2020 season.

By the numbers:

McCarthy's record as the Cowboys' head coach was 49-35, including three 12-5 seasons.

During his tenure, McCarthy's Cowboys have scored more points on offense and taken the ball away more times on defense than every single team except the Buffalo Bills.

Under McCarthy, the Cowboys posted a 1-3 record in the postseason.

McCarthy leaves Dallas as the coach with the third most wins in franchise history.