In an emotional and heartfelt statement, newly appointed New Orleans Saints head coach Mike McCarthy, who was recently hired period in Dallas, shared his thoughts and gratitude toward Jerry Jones, the Dallas Cowboys organization, and the Cowboys’ fanbase following his departure from the team. After a highly publicized exit from Dallas, McCarthy is now at the helm in New Orleans, stepping into a new chapter of his coaching career, and he took a moment to reflect on his years with the Cowboys.

In a statement released via social media and the Saints’ official channels, McCarthy shared his gratitude for the time he spent in Dallas, the relationships he built, and his deep appreciation for the loyal fanbase that supported him throughout his tenure with the Cowboys. The announcement of McCarthy’s move to New Orleans earlier this offseason was one of the most significant coaching shifts of 2025, and his remarks will undoubtedly resonate with both Cowboys and Saints fans alike.

McCarthy’s Message to Jerry Jones and the Cowboys Organization

“First and foremost, I want to thank Jerry Jones for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to be part of the Dallas Cowboys organization,” McCarthy began. “When I was hired in 2020, I knew the weight of the job and the expectations that came with it. Jerry has always been a visionary and a passionate leader, and I am deeply grateful for his trust in me to guide one of the most storied franchises in NFL history.”

McCarthy’s tenure in Dallas was marked by ups and downs. After taking over as head coach in 2020, he inherited a team with immense potential, including a high-powered offense led by quarterback Dak Prescott. Under McCarthy, the Cowboys showed flashes of brilliance, including a division title in 2021, but the team struggled in key playoff moments. Ultimately, McCarthy’s time in Dallas was a mix of promise and disappointment, culminating in a difficult decision by Jones to move in a new direction.

The Cowboys had high expectations under McCarthy, but despite some success in the regular season, the team’s inability to break through in the playoffs led to mounting pressure. After the Cowboys’ 2024 playoff exit, McCarthy and Jones decided it was time for a change, and the two parted ways amicably.

“I know that my time with the Cowboys was challenging at times, but it was also filled with incredible moments and a lot of great memories,” McCarthy continued. “We had some tough seasons, but we also had success—winning the NFC East and competing in some of the most intense games of my career. I’ll always look back on those moments with pride, knowing we worked hard and fought for that star on the helmet.”

Reflecting on the Dallas Cowboys Experience

McCarthy’s experience with the Cowboys was not only a coaching job but also an opportunity to be part of one of the most passionate fanbases in the NFL. The Cowboys’ “America’s Team” moniker has long been a part of the franchise’s mystique, and McCarthy grew to appreciate the unique role the team plays in the league’s history.

“I want to thank the fans of the Dallas Cowboys,” McCarthy said. “You all are the heart and soul of this organization. From the first day I arrived, I felt the energy, the passion, and the desire for excellence. The Cowboy Nation is unmatched. I’ve been a part of some amazing fanbases in my career, but none like the one in Dallas. I’ll always carry that with me, and I’ll always have love for the city of Dallas and the entire Cowboys community.”

McCarthy also took the time to reflect on his relationships with players, coaches, and staff members who helped him along the way in Dallas. “To the players, my coaching staff, and everyone I worked with in Dallas, I want to say thank you. We pushed each other, we learned from each other, and we grew together. I have a lot of respect for everyone in that building, and I’ll always cherish the memories and friendships I made during my time there. The success we shared was a collective effort, and I’m proud of the hard work we put in.”

Moving Forward: McCarthy’s New Journey with the Saints

While his departure from Dallas was bittersweet, McCarthy is now fully focused on the future, taking on the challenge of leading the New Orleans Saints to the next level. After stepping into the role vacated by Dennis Allen, who moved to a new position within the organization, McCarthy brings his wealth of experience and leadership to a team poised for success.

“I’m excited for this new chapter with the New Orleans Saints. The opportunity to coach such a storied franchise, with a passionate fanbase and a strong roster, is something I’ve always dreamed of,” McCarthy said. “The Saints have a great foundation with talented players on both sides of the ball, and I’m eager to help them take the next step toward winning championships. New Orleans is a city full of heart, and I can’t wait to get started building a winning culture with this team.”

McCarthy is inheriting a team with significant talent, including quarterback Derek Carr, wide receiver Chris Olave, and running back Alvin Kamara. The Saints’ defense, led by rising stars like linebacker Demario Davis and defensive end Cam Jordan, also has the potential to be one of the league’s most dominant units. McCarthy’s experience in managing high-pressure situations, building team culture, and developing quarterbacks will be invaluable as he works to lead the Saints back to Super Bowl contention.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to continue my coaching journey with such a great franchise,” McCarthy concluded. “I know the expectations in New Orleans are high, but I’m ready for the challenge. Together, we’re going to build something special. I’m excited to get started, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.”

Looking Back: McCarthy’s Legacy in Dallas

McCarthy’s departure from Dallas leaves behind a mixed but ultimately productive legacy. While his tenure didn’t result in a Super Bowl appearance, he did bring stability to a franchise that had been searching for a consistent coach after the end of the Jason Garrett era. Under McCarthy, the Cowboys were competitive in the NFC East, won division titles, and boasted one of the NFL’s top offenses. However, the inability to achieve postseason success, especially in a year with high expectations, led to McCarthy’s exit.

McCarthy’s time in Dallas wasn’t without its struggles, but it also laid the foundation for future success. His mentorship of quarterback Dak Prescott and his efforts to create a disciplined, structured team environment have left their mark on the Cowboys. Now, with a new coach at the helm, the Cowboys will look to build on what McCarthy started, but his influence on the franchise will not be easily forgotten.

The Future for Both Teams

As McCarthy embarks on his journey with the New Orleans Saints, the Cowboys are also moving forward with a new era under a new head coach. The pressure will be on McCarthy to immediately make an impact in New Orleans, as the Saints are positioned to compete in a competitive NFC South division.

Meanwhile, the Cowboys, now under new leadership, will look to carry the momentum built during McCarthy’s time and push further into the postseason. With talent across the roster, the Cowboys’ next head coach will be tasked with finally getting the team over the hump and back to the Super Bowl.

For McCarthy, the move to New Orleans is an exciting opportunity to continue his coaching career and build on the foundation he created in Dallas. As he takes on this new challenge, one thing is clear: McCarthy’s journey in the NFL is far from over, and his legacy in Dallas will be one chapter in a long and storied career.

Conclusion: A Respectful Goodbye and a New Beginning

Mike McCarthy’s message to Jerry Jones, the Dallas Cowboys, and the fanbase exemplifies the gratitude and respect he holds for the team and the city that gave him a chance to prove himself once again as an NFL head coach. As McCarthy now turns the page to a new chapter in New Orleans, his connection to Dallas remains one of respect and appreciation for the experiences he had, the lessons learned, and the relationships formed.

In New Orleans, McCarthy is ready to build his own legacy with the Saints, taking on the challenges of a new city and a new team. The future looks bright for both McCarthy and the Saints, but his time with the Cowboys will always hold a special place in his heart. As McCarthy embarks on his next journey, he leaves behind a message of gratitude and a promise to continue his pursuit of greatness in the NFL.