The Dallas Cowboys are currently searching for a new head coach following the team’s decision not to extend Mike McCarthy’s contract. This vacancy has stirred up a lot of speculation, with several prominent names being linked to the job. Among the candidates rumored to be in consideration is Deion Sanders, the Hall of Famer and current University of Colorado head coach. However, another Cowboys legend has thrown a different name into the mix—Jason Witten.
DeMarcus Ware, a Hall of Fame linebacker and longtime leader for the Cowboys, recently shared his thoughts on who he believes would be an ideal candidate to take the reins in Dallas. Ware’s choice is none other than Jason Witten, his former teammate and one of the most accomplished players in Cowboys history. Speaking about Witten, Ware highlighted the qualities that make him stand out as a potential head coach for the team.
“Probably Jason Witten,” Ware said when asked who he would pick for the head coaching position. “I think he would do well in the locker room. Even though he doesn’t have total NFL experience, he’s been coaching high school football for a while, and you can always bring in NFL (assistants). The head coach is the motivator. The head coach is the one that organizes things the right way. And I think he’d bring in the old way—not the new-school way.”
Ware went on to emphasize what he feels the Cowboys need most from their next head coach. “We need discipline. We need integrity. And we need gladiators,” he said, underscoring the importance of leadership qualities and a strong presence in the locker room.
Jason Witten, who spent 16 of his 17 NFL seasons with the Cowboys, is one of the most beloved figures in the franchise’s history. During his playing career, Witten was known for his work ethic, leadership, and consistency. He retired as one of the most productive tight ends in NFL history, ranking second in receptions and receiving yards among tight ends. His illustrious career has made him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the football world.
Since retiring, Witten has taken on a new challenge as the head coach of Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas. Under his leadership, the school’s football program has flourished, achieving remarkable success. Liberty Christian has won back-to-back state championships, including an undefeated season in 2023—the first in the school’s history. These accomplishments speak to Witten’s ability to inspire and lead young athletes, even if his coaching experience has been limited to the high school level.
DeMarcus Ware isn’t the only one who sees potential in Witten as a head coach. Mike Fisher, a longtime Cowboys insider, has included Witten on his list of former players who could intrigue team owner Jerry Jones. Witten’s name joins other notable figures, including Deion Sanders, former Cowboys offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, and NFL coaches Aaron Glenn and Anthony Lynn. Witten’s ties to the Cowboys and his iconic status in Texas make him an appealing candidate, especially for a team looking to reignite its winning culture.
Witten’s potential candidacy brings several unique advantages. His deep connection to the Cowboys organization and understanding of its culture could help him connect with players in a way that outside candidates might struggle to do. Moreover, his championship pedigree and firsthand experience as a player could lend credibility to his leadership. As Ware noted, a head coach doesn’t need to have extensive NFL coaching experience if they possess the ability to motivate and organize effectively. Witten’s track record suggests he has the qualities needed to succeed in such a role.
The Cowboys are one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, but they have faced significant challenges in recent years, struggling to achieve consistent postseason success. As the team seeks a new leader to guide them back to prominence, the choice of head coach will be crucial. While the idea of hiring Witten might seem unconventional to some, his history with the team and leadership skills could make him a compelling option.
Witten’s success at Liberty Christian demonstrates his ability to build a winning program and instill a strong sense of discipline and purpose in his players. These traits align closely with what Ware believes the Cowboys need most—a leader who can bring structure, integrity, and a warrior-like mentality to the locker room.
As the coaching search continues, it remains to be seen whether Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ front office will seriously consider Witten for the job. The team has no shortage of high-profile candidates to choose from, including proven NFL coaches and rising stars in the college ranks. However, the endorsement from DeMarcus Ware highlights the potential value of looking within the Cowboys family for their next head coach.
In addition to Witten, other former Cowboys players and coaches have been mentioned as possibilities. Deion Sanders, who has garnered national attention for his work at Colorado, remains a prominent name in the conversation. Sanders’ ability to inspire and his ties to the Cowboys make him a fascinating candidate, though his lack of NFL coaching experience raises questions. Similarly, Kellen Moore, who previously served as the Cowboys’ offensive coordinator, brings familiarity with the team’s current roster and system.
Ultimately, the decision will come down to Jerry Jones and his vision for the team’s future. Whether the Cowboys choose a proven NFL veteran, a college standout, or a franchise icon like Jason Witten, the choice will carry significant implications for the team’s direction. For now, Witten’s name is in the mix, and the support of a respected figure like DeMarcus Ware adds weight to his candidacy.
The Cowboys are at a crossroads, and the next head coach will have the opportunity to reshape the team’s identity. Jason Witten, with his experience, leadership, and deep connection to the organization, represents an intriguing option—one that could bring the discipline and integrity Ware believes are essential for success. While the road ahead is uncertain, one thing is clear: the Cowboys’ coaching decision will be one of the most pivotal in recent memory.
