NFC team could be waiting in the wings to pursue Cowboys' Mike McCarthy

If the Dallas Cowboys and Mike McCarthy fail to reach a deal, one NFC team is expected to be waiting in the wings.

Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy reacts against the New York Giants. / Chris Jones-Imagn Images

Time is running out. When the clock strikes midnight, Mike McCarthy will be a free agent if the Dallas Cowboys and Jerry Jones fail to finalize a contract.

After letting McCarthy enter the season on the final year of his deal and failing to make any progress throughout the season, it is seemingly more and more likely that McCarthy will be able to speak with other teams in a matter of hours.

If that is the case, McCarthy won't be waiting long for teams to show interest.

MORE: Cowboys, Mike McCarthy update raises further questions as deadline looms

The Chicago Bears have already reached out to request an interview with the head coach, but the Cowboys denied their advances.

But, there is another NFC team who could be "very interested" in McCarthy's services.

According to Saints beat writer Nick Underhill, the Saints are one team who could be in the mix for McCarthy if he does not return to Big D.

I expect the Saints to be very interested if this contract expires https://t.co/N60U4mdhDB

— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) January 13, 2025

The whole situation has been handled poorly from the jump, but is anyone surprised? This is a Jerry Jones run team, so there is always chaos.

MORE: Mike McCarthy's previous contract may have been a bargain for Cowboys

The only question that remains is: does Jerry have a backup plan? And what is it?

Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy against the Philadelphia Eagles. / Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Get your popcorn ready, Cowboys Nation. It's going to be a wild ride over the next few hours while the NFL world is on McCarthy watch.

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