UNANNOUNCED: Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones announced a new appointment: He named the former Saints coach as head coach and Mike McCarthy as the new…

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones announced a new appointment: He named the former New Orleans Saints head coach, Sean Payton, as the team’s new head coach, while retaining Mike McCarthy in a newly defined role. McCarthy, who had been the Cowboys’ head coach since 2020, was reassigned to serve as the team’s senior advisor to football operations, a move that reshapes the leadership structure in Dallas as they aim to return to prominence.

Jones, speaking at a press conference, emphasized the importance of both continuity and fresh perspectives in the organization. “Sean brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record,” Jones said. “His leadership will help elevate our offense and bring a new dynamic to our team. Mike McCarthy has been a key part of the Cowboys’ recent success, and his experience will continue to be invaluable in an advisory capacity. Together, they will help ensure that we remain competitive in an ever-evolving NFL.”

Payton, who led the Saints to a Super Bowl victory in 2009 and is widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top offensive minds, expressed excitement about the opportunity to take over a roster filled with talent. “This is a franchise with a storied history, and I’m looking forward to working with these players, coaches, and the entire organization,” Payton said. “Our goal is to build a championship-caliber team, and that starts with setting the right culture and getting the most out of our players.”

McCarthy, who had struggled to fully meet expectations in Dallas despite several playoff appearances, was reportedly consulted about the changes and welcomed the new structure. By moving to an advisory role, McCarthy will still contribute to the Cowboys’ strategic decisions, particularly in personnel matters, but will no longer be the head coach on game days. This shift allows McCarthy to focus on mentoring the coaching staff and providing insight into broader football operations, while Payton will handle the day-to-day responsibilities of leading the team on the field.

For the Cowboys, the changes mark a significant shift in their organizational strategy as they continue their quest to secure another Super Bowl title. With Payton’s proven leadership and McCarthy’s vast experience, the Cowboys are hoping to blend innovation with tradition as they build toward future success.