Deion Sanders and Kellen Moore are the two names tied the most often to the Dallas Cowboys since the franchise moved on from Mike McCarthy last Monday. Though they’re considered the most likely, there might be a surprise twist in the horizon.
Each of the above makes sense in different ways and the Cowboys have talked to both already, though only Moore has been formally interviewed. But now, two of the hottest names in the market are unexpectedly available to be interviewed in person.
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn weren’t expected to be available for interviews this early in the process as their team was expected to make the NFC Championship Game after opening as large favorites over the Washington Commanders.
On Saturday night however, the Commanders upset the Lions in a 45-31 showdown. The loss means both Johnson and Glenn can now conduct in-person interview for teams interested in them.
Though the Cowboys have conducted their first round of interviews, including Moore, Robert Saleh, and Leslie Frazier, reports emerged Friday on Dallas being expected to bring in both Lions coordinators for interviews.
FOX Sports’ insider Jordan Schultz reported on Saturday “one league source mentioned Jerry Jones holding (Aaron Glenn) in especially high regard.” He added Glenn is a name to watch for the Cowboys.
Glenn played cornerback for the Cowboys in 2005-2006 and his defense in Detroit isn’t all that’s earning him head coaching interest: His attitude and leadership skills have been consistently praised and he could be a CEO personality while still calling defensive plays.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter said earlier in the week he didn’t expect offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to be a serious candidate for Dallas.
Now granted, an interview could be enough to change that provided both parties fit like a glove. Though still a remote possibility, at least such an interview can now happen as Johnson’s schedule has been cleared.
For now, Moore and Sanders remain among the likeliest choices in Dallas. But now that the Lions’ coordinators are free, a surprise twist could happen at any moment.