The majority of the NFL world wasn't too impressed with the Cowboys' choice to replace McCarthy with Schottenheimer, a longtime coordinator and first-time head coach. But former NFL quarterback Drew Brees—who was coached by Schottenheimer early in his career—approves.

The Dallas Cowboys have hired former offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer as the tenth head coach in franchise history.

Owner Jerry Jones explains why Schottenheimer was the choice to replace Mike McCarthy after disappointing 7-10 season.

Former #Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy has decided to focus on the 2026 hiring cycle and will not coach in the NFL this season, sources tell me and @RapSheet. McCarthy, who has made the playoffs 12 times in 18 seasons, is expected to be a strong candidate a year from now. pic.twitter.com/Vr8mMijIkq

After careful consideration, Mike McCarthy has made a decision on his future. The former Dallas Cowboys ' head coach has decided to forego coaching in the NFL next season, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. MORE: Cowboys' VP Will McClay emphasizes organizational alignment with Brian Schottenheimer

McCarthy, whose contract expired with the Cowboys and wasn't signed to an extension, will sit out the 2025 season, according to NFL Media's Tom Pelissero. McCarthy removed his name from consideration for the New Orleans Saints' vacancy. The Saints are the last team to have a head coaching job open this offseason.