As the Dallas Cowboys’ season continues to unravel, speculation about Mike McCarthy’s replacement is heating up. One of the more intriguing rumors gaining traction involves Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders taking the reins in Dallas. However, NFL insider Dianna Russini has dismissed this idea in no uncertain terms, calling it “it’s not real” during a recent appearance on the Dan LeBatard Show with Stugotz podcast.
Deion Sanders’ Focus Remains on College Football
According to Russini, Sanders has no intention of leaving his current role at Colorado to pursue an NFL head coaching position. Despite the excitement surrounding the possibility of Sanders pairing up with his son, CU quarterback Shedeur Sanders, in Dallas, Russini says it’s not in the cards.
“I think Deion actually wants to stay in college,” Russini said. “Talking to some people close to him, they’ve shared with me that he likes where he’s at. He likes the space he’s in.”
While she acknowledged that things could always change, Russini emphasized that the Cowboys are unlikely to pursue a first-time NFL head coach like Sanders. Instead, the franchise is expected to target experienced NFL candidates.
Bill Belichick, Mike Vrabel Among Leading Names
Russini also touched on the broader NFL coaching landscape, identifying several high-profile candidates likely to be on Dallas’ radar. Former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick and Titans head coach Mike Vrabel are among the names being floated. Other candidates include Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, both of whom have been linked to coaching vacancies in recent weeks.
“The top candidates appear to be Mike Vrabel, Bill Belichick, Aaron Glenn in Detroit, and Ben Johnson in Detroit — and those seem to be the names for right now,” Russini noted.
Cowboys Face Crucial Decision Ahead
The Cowboys, sitting at a disappointing 3-7 this season, appear poised for significant changes in 2025. With Dak Prescott sidelined due to injury and questions swirling about the team’s leadership, Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ front office will face intense scrutiny as they chart a path forward.
For now, the idea of Deion Sanders bringing his charisma and college football success to Dallas remains nothing more than an enticing but unrealistic rumor. As Russini made clear, the Cowboys are more likely to bet on a seasoned NFL leader to reverse their fortunes.
