Mike McCarthy and the Cowboys weren't able to agree to a new deal and are parting ways. The Bears previously requested an interview with McCarthy but were denied during the Cowboys' exclusive negotiating window with the head coach. McCarthy completed his interview with Chicago after his Cowboys contract expired. The Saints also reportedly have interest in McCarthy. As for the Cowboys, owner Jerry Jones has spoken with Colorado head coach Deion Sanders about the team’s vacancy, with discussions expected to continue, according to FOX Sports NFL Insider Jordan Schultz. Sanders has since confirmed that discussions have taken place. Sanders, who played in Dallas for five seasons, would "almost certainly accept" an offer to become the Cowboys' next head coach, WFAA in Dallas reported on Jan. 16. People close to Sanders have encouraged him to pursue the role and Jones is enamored with the possibility of hiring his former star player to become the next head coach, WFAA added in its report. Sanders is considered a top candidate, though the Cowboys plan to interview others as part of the process, according to Schultz. Those candidates include current Cowboys offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, former Jets coach Robert Saleh, Seahawks assistant coach Leslie Frazier and former Cowboys/current Eagles OC Kellen Moore. Jones has also spoken to former Seahawks coach Pete Carroll, per multiple reports, on an informal basis.

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