Jerry Jones talks Cowboys coaching job with Deion Sanders

FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys are in the early stages of searching to replace Mike McCarthy as head coach, but one name is already known: former Cowboys cornerback and current Colorado State coach Deion Sun Des.

Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones and Sanders spoke Monday, and while an interview has not yet been scheduled, the two are expected to continue conversations, a source said. Fox Sports first reported the talks.

Sanders was linked to a job with the Cowboys that wasn't even open in the fall.

“It was really nice and fun to hear from Jerry Jones,” Sanders told ESPN's Adam Schefter on Monday night. “I love Jerry and believe in Jerry. When you hang up the phone and process it and think about it, it's fun. But I love Boulder and everything about our team, coaches, student body and community.”

Sanders just completed his second season in Colorado, where he compiled a 13-12 record, including a 9-4 record in 2024 when Buffalo wide receiver and cornerback Travis ·Travis Hunter won the Heisman Trophy.

In November, Sanders was asked about potential interest from NFL teams.

“I'm happy where I'm at, man,” Sanders said. “I have a brace. You know what a brace is? … It means I'm resting. I'm fine, I'm happy, I'm excited. I'm passionate about where I am. I love it here, really. ”

After his success at Jackson State, Sanders was hired by Colorado State in late 2022 to a five-year, $29.5 million contract.

Sanders played five seasons for the Cowboys during his Hall of Fame career, helping the team win Super Bowl XXX in 1996 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. After his career ended, he remained in North Texas and maintained a close relationship with the Jones family.

Under the NFL's Rooney Rule, teams must interview two outside minority head coaching candidates during their search.

The Cowboys announced Monday that they and McCarthy would part ways after five seasons. McCarthy was 49-35 in the regular season and 7-10 this season.

Rules also prohibit scheduling any interviews, but McCarthy is expected to interview with the Chicago Bears as early as Wednesday, according to multiple sources. The New Orleans Saints are also expected to interview McCarthy.