Mike McCarthy's contract with the Cowboys is about to expire. Here's the timeline fans need to know about a decision on the head coach.

Dallas fell far short of expectations this year as losses and injuries piled up, with rumors swirling about McCarthy’s future with the franchise on a near-weekly basis. With the book now closed on a challenging 2024 season, McCarthy is focused on what’s ahead and what he hopes is a return to Dallas.

With six days to go in the exclusive negotiating window, all eyes are on what the Dallas Cowboys decide on Mike McCarthy’s future. He coached this season in the final year of his contract, and the spotlight grew even bigger after the franchise denied the Chicago Bears’ request to interview him for their head coach position.