In a surprising twist of fate, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones chose not to steal the spotlight during the Packers-Eagles playoff game by announcing Mike McCarthy's departure from the head coaching position. However, he couldn't resist the chance to make headlines by leaking that he has had discussions with Colorado coach Deion Sanders, much to the intrigue of fans and analysts alike.

This revelation serves a dual purpose: it potentially allows Sanders to negotiate a lucrative extension with Colorado, while also raising his profile as a viable candidate for an NFL coaching role—despite his strong insistence throughout the 2023 season that he has no plans to jump to the NFL. For the Cowboys, it enhances the allure of their coaching vacancy, showcasing the high-profile names potentially in play.

But perhaps the most interesting name on this list is former Cowboys tight end Jason Witten. According to insiders familiar with the team's dynamics, many believe that Witten could eventually be a frontrunner for the head coach position, even if that timeline is not immediate. If McCarthy had considered a shorter contract, there was speculation that Witten would have joined the coaching staff to gain valuable NFL experience before stepping into the top role himself.

In a flashback to recent coaching decisions, one might wonder if Jerry Jones will look to mimic Jim Irsay of the Colts, who faced backlash for hiring Jeff Saturday—a former player with limited coaching experience, predominantly in high school. Witten, on the other hand, has held the title of head coach at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas, for the past four years. While this experience is minimal, it might be sufficient in Jones' eyes.

Additionally, there's the intriguing idea that Jones could opt for a more experienced coach to mentor Witten. Could someone like Pete Carroll step in with the stipulation that he would prepare Witten to take over the reins at an appropriate time? This seems like a strategic move that could benefit both parties.

Whatever path the Cowboys choose, it's worth paying attention to Witten's trajectory. Though he may not be the immediate frontrunner for the NFL coaching role, his name is sure to surface in discussions. With recent coaching trends showing an appetite for unconventional choices, don't be surprised if Witten's elevation isn't as shocking as other recent coaching surprises, such as Saturday’s appointment in Indianapolis.

As the Cowboys navigate this critical juncture in their franchise history, the potential for Witten’s ascent adds a layer of intrigue to an already captivating offseason storyline. Are we witnessing the beginning of a new chapter that could return familiar faces to the forefront of America’s Team? Keep your eyes peeled, as the drama continues to unfold!