Mike McCarthy NFL plans : Former Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy recently opened up about his life after coaching and his plans for an NFL return in 2026. In an exclusive interview with D Magazine, McCarthy reflected on his time with the Cowboys, his current life in retirement, and what lies ahead for the celebrated coach. This blog post dives deep into McCarthy’s journey, his family focus during his time off, and his readiness to step back into the NFL coaching world.
Mike McCarthy’s Dallas Cowboys Tenure A Chapter to Remember

#Mike McCarthy joined the Dallas Cowboys in 2020, bringing with him a legacy built on success, including a Super Bowl victory with quarterback Aaron Rodgers while coaching the Green Bay Packers.The Cowboys promoted offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer to head coach, marking a shift in the team’s direction.
Despite the tough ending, McCarthy expressed immense gratitude for his Dallas experience. “It’s very important to me that I leave Dallas the right way,” he said. He fondly recalled the relationships built, the challenges faced, and the memories created with his family. McCarthy also shared his ongoing connection to Dallas, mentioning how he continues to pay taxes in Plano and holds a strong affection for the city’s people and fans.
Prioritizing Family During Retirement
- Since stepping away from coaching, McCarthy has embraced a rewarding family life.
- With five children, including two teenage daughters still at home, he has relished
- the chance to be more present in their lives. He humorously remarked,
- “I’m competing for Father of the Year and I’m kicking ass,” highlighting the joy he finds in this new role.
McCarthy stressed the importance of family in his current life, noting that while coaching used to dominate, “It’s football and then family” now. He cherishes moments like supporting his daughter’s national champion junior volleyball team, appreciating the growth and camaraderie witnessed throughout the season.
This period of reflection and family focus has been healing after the highs and lows of his coaching career, allowing McCarthy to recharge and reconnect deeply with those closest to him.
Preparing for an NFL Return in 2026
- Even though 2025 marks McCarthy’s first year away from coaching since 1993, he
- “I’m preparing to coach again in 2026,”
- he revealed, showing his readiness to return to the competitive edge of the NFL sidelines.
His daily routine during retirement somewhat mirrors his life as a coach, maintaining regimented habits but now filled with family and social engagements. McCarthy candidly shared, “I go to bed tired every night,” underscoring his active lifestyle even outside football.
With many coaching vacancies expected to open in 2026, McCarthy’s experience and winning pedigree make him a prime candidate for available NFL opportunities. His willingness to return indicates both his passion for the sport and his desire to re-engage with the football world at a high level.
Legacy and Future Outlook
His time with the Cowboys added new chapters to his storied career, shaped by perseverance and leadership. Now, as he steps back temporarily to prioritize family, McCarthy’s story illustrates the balance between professional ambition and personal fulfillment.
- Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the 2026 NFL season approaches
- anticipating where McCarthy’s coaching journey will take him next For now
- his focus on family and readiness to return keeps the former head coach in
- the conversation as a strong potential hire for NFL teams seeking experienced leadership.








