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Todd Archer, ESPN Staff Writer
FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys are in the early stages of their search to replace Mike McCarthy as head coach, but one name is already known: former Cowboys cornerback and current Colorado coach Deion Sanders.
A source said owner and general manager Jerry Jones and Sanders spoke Monday, and while an interview has not been scheduled, the two are expected to continue their dialogue. Fox Sports first reported the conversation between the two sides.
Sanders was linked to a Cowboys’ job that was not even open in the fall.
Sanders just completed his second season at Colorado where he has posted a 13-12 record, including a 9-4 mark in 2024 in which the Buffaloes had the Heisman Trophy winner in wide receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter.
In November, Sanders was asked about potential interest from NFL teams.
“I’m happy where I am, man,” Sanders said. “I’ve got a kickstand down. You know what a kickstand is? … That means I’m resting. I’m good, I’m happy, I’m excited. I’m enthusiastic about where I am. I love it here, truly do.”
Sanders received a five-year, $29.5 million contract when he was hired at Colorado in late 2022 after his successful run at Jackson State.
Sanders played five seasons of his Hall of Fame career for the Cowboys, helping the team win Super Bowl XXX against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He remained in north Texas after his playing career ended and has maintained a close relationship with the Jones’ family.
Per the NFL’s Rooney Rule, teams must interview two external minority head coach candidates in their search.
The Cowboys announced Monday that they and McCarthy would part ways after five seasons. McCarthy posted a 49-35 regular-season record, including a 7-10 mark in 2024.
Rules prohibit any interviews to be scheduled yet, but McCarthy is expected to interview with the Chicago Bears as early as Wednesday, according to multiple sources. The New Orleans Saints also are expected to interview McCarthy.