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Mike McCarthy isn’t looking for a new job right away. 

The ex-Cowboys coach won’t be searching for a new head coaching gig until the 2026 hiring cycle, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported on Tuesday night. 

He is expected to be “a strong candidate a year from now,” according to the report. 


  Mike McCarthy throws a challenge flag against during the Cowboys’ loss to the Commanders on Jan. 5, 2025. Getty Images Mike McCarthy throws a challenge flag against during the Cowboys’ loss to the Commanders on Jan. 5, 2025. Getty Images

McCarthy’s tenure with the Cowboys came to an end earlier this month after five seasons with an overall 49-35 record.

He led the Cowboys to playoff appearances in 2021, 2022 and 2023, but only had one playoff win in that span. 

McCarthy had been linked to several coaching vacancies following his departure from Dallas and interviewed with the Bears for their opening. 

McCarthy, 61, was also believed to be linked to the Saints coaching job. 


  Mike McCarthy talks to reporters following the Cowboys’ 23-19 loss to the Commanders on Jan. 5, 2025. AP Mike McCarthy talks to reporters following the Cowboys’ 23-19 loss to the Commanders on Jan. 5, 2025. AP

The Saints are the only team remaining in search of a head coach. 

The decision to take himself off the job market seemed to be a bit of a blow for New Orleans in their search for a new coach, according to NOLA.com. 

The outlet described McCarthy as one of the favorites to land the job. 

McCarthy was the Saints’ offensive coordinator from 2000-04. 

NOLA.com reported that McCarthy was supposed to interview for the Saints head coaching gig last week but had to be delayed after a snowstorm that hit the area.

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