After much anticipation, it has been confirmed that Mike McCarthy will not return to the Dallas Cowboys.

With McCarthy’s contract expiring on Tuesday, both he and the organization have opted to part ways rather than pursue an extension, as reported by sources familiar with the situation who spoke to YSL News Sports’ Jarrett Bell on the condition of anonymity. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero was the first to reveal this news.

Now that he is no longer with the Cowboys, McCarthy is free to explore roles with other NFL teams, especially since the Cowboys recently turned down a request from the Chicago Bears to interview him for their head coach position.

During his five years with the Cowboys, McCarthy achieved a record of 49 wins and 35 losses, taking the team to the playoffs three times. This past season ended with a disappointing 7-10 record.

In light of his contract ending, there were speculations about McCarthy’s future with the Cowboys. Following the team’s defeat to the Washington Commanders in Week 18, McCarthy asserted his desire to remain in Dallas, saying, “Absolutely. I have a lot invested here, and the Cowboys have a lot invested in me. There’s a personal side to all these decisions. They all point in a positive direction. Anytime you put in your time and energy, and establish beliefs and connections with people, and understand what the organization can achieve, those are all benefits that matter in making this choice.”

McCarthy had been under scrutiny for his coaching role for almost a year. Despite a significant loss in the wild-card round against the Green Bay Packers last January, Jerry Jones allowed him to complete the final year of his contract but chose not to extend it, mentioning the franchise’s commitment to be fully invested in the 2024 season after achieving three consecutive seasons with 12 wins, yet failing to reach the NFC championship game for nearly thirty years.

This past season, the Cowboys encountered difficulties, including the end of their 16-game winning streak at home, with five losses at AT&T Stadium early in the year. The 47-9 loss against the Detroit Lions in Week 6 was noted as the worst home defeat under Jones’ ownership.

The team was also hit hard by injuries, losing significant players like linebacker Micah Parsons, defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, and cornerbacks DaRon Bland and Trevon Diggs for extended periods. The situation deteriorated further when quarterback Dak Prescott underwent surgery in early November due to a partially torn hamstring, leading to expectations of a downturn that saw the Cowboys slump to a 3-7 record.

However, they managed to bounce back by winning four out of their next five matches, which sparked discussions about McCarthy’s chances of remaining with the team.

Throughout the course of the fall and winter, Jones offered general praise for McCarthy, though he never fully committed to him.

This story has been updated with new information.