The Chicago Bears' reported request to interview Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy has potentially thrown a wrench into the Cowboys' offseason plans. ESPN reports that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has yet to respond to the request, adding another layer of intrigue to McCarthy's uncertain future in Dallas.

While the Bears don't technically need permission to speak with McCarthy after the exclusive negotiating window closes on January 14th, their interest could force the Cowboys to make a quicker decision regarding their head coach. McCarthy's contract is expiring, but Jerry Jones has expressed a desire to retain the Super Bowl-winning coach. Key players, including quarterback Dak Prescott, have also publicly advocated for McCarthy's return.

McCarthy just completed his fifth season with the Cowboys. After three consecutive 12-5 seasons, the team stumbled to a 7-10 record and missed the playoffs in 2024. This disappointing season, coupled with Prescott's season-ending hamstring injury in early November, fueled speculation about McCarthy's job security.

Despite the initial struggles, the Cowboys showed resilience late in the season, winning four of their last five games with backup quarterback Cooper Rush. This late-season surge, including a hard-fought loss to the Washington Commanders in the final seconds of Week 18, may have influenced Jones's thinking about McCarthy's future.

Reports indicate that Jones and McCarthy met on Monday, although it's unclear whether a contract offer was extended. McCarthy has reportedly expressed a desire to stay in Dallas. Meanwhile, the Bears are actively seeking a new head coach to lead a team with considerable potential. Despite a strong start to the season, the Bears finished with a 10-game losing streak before a Week 18 victory against the Green Bay Packers. They've already requested interviews with several other candidates, including offensive and defensive coordinators from the Detroit Lions, New York Giants, and Pittsburgh Steelers.