Jerry Jones praised current Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy while explaining why the Dallas owner felt it was time for the two to go their separate ways.

On Monday it was announced that McCarthy would not return as coach of the Cowboys because the two teams could not agree on a new contract.

Jones, in his statement, reiterated his praise for the job McCarthy had done as leader of the Cowboys and said he had “great respect for Mike” before explaining that a “joint review” had led to the conclusion that it was time to move on.

“This past week, Mike and I had the opportunity to reflect together on all aspects of the past season, our players and staff, and also spent considerable time discussing the team’s path forward,” Jones said.

“These discussions were thorough and given an appropriate amount of time and depth. However, before contract negotiations began, it was clear to everyone that it would be better for each of us to take a different path. I thank Mike and wish him, his wife Jessica and their family all the best. You have been a wonderful part of our community here. We will begin the search for the next head coach of the Dallas Cowboys immediately.”

McCarthy has not yet publicly commented on the decision.

McCarthy went 49-35 in his five seasons with the Cowboys and helped the franchise reach the playoffs in 2021, 2022 and 2023, but they won just one postseason game during that span.

Last season, the Cowboys finished 2024 with a 7-10 record while also dealing with an injury to starting quarterback Dak Prescott. This led to intense speculation as to whether McCarthy would return next season.

He also received interest in other coaching jobs, with the Bears making a formal request to speak with him, which was rejected by the Cowboys.

Both the Bears and Saints are expected to be interested in McCarthy now that he is a free agent as a coach.