The Dallas Cowboys' absence from the playoffs and subsequent coaching change has highlighted their extended NFC Championship drought. Despite failing to secure a playoff berth, the Cowboys remained a topic of conversation among NFL fans, especially after parting ways with head coach Mike McCarthy.

The Washington Commanders' victory over the Detroit Lions officially ended their own long-standing NFC Championship drought, securing them a chance to compete for a Super Bowl appearance for the first time since 1991. This achievement underscores the Cowboys' own struggles, as they now hold the longest NFC Championship drought, having not reached the conference title game since their Super Bowl-winning season in 1995.

Dallas has made 18 playoff appearances since their last Super Bowl victory, but none have resulted in a divisional round win. This stark reality contrasts with the success of other teams during the same period, such as the New England Patriots under Tom Brady, who secured six Super Bowl titles, and the New York Giants, who won two Super Bowls.

While the Cleveland Browns and Miami Dolphins have even longer conference title game droughts, the Cowboys' situation is particularly noteworthy given their historical prominence and the expectations surrounding the team. The Browns' last AFC Championship appearance was in 1989, while the Dolphins last reached the conference title game in 1992.

The Cowboys face a crucial offseason with the immediate task of finding a new head coach. The team's prolonged inability to advance in the playoffs underscores the need for significant changes and improvements to return to Super Bowl contention.