The Bears are requesting an interview with Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy

The Bears have requested permission to interview Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy, ESPN reports. The team is awaiting a response from the Cowboys.

Dallas owns an exclusive negotiating window with McCarthy until January 14th.

Jerry Jones did not sound concerned about the possibility of other teams requesting to interview McCarthy, but he did not indicate whether he would grant requests until McCarthy becomes a free agent.

“I wouldn’t want anyone training this wouldn’t be hereJones said.

McCarthy said Sunday that he “absolutely” wants to return as head coach of the Cowboys.

The Cowboys opted not to extend McCarthy’s contract after the 48-32 playoff loss to the Packers at home in the wild-card round a year ago. McCarthy is 49-35 in the regular season in his five seasons in Dallas, including three consecutive 12-5 seasons, but just 1-3 in the postseason.

The Cowboys ended a 7-10 season in 2024 with a last-second loss to the Commanders on Sunday.

The Bears have also requested to interview Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing and Dolphins defensive coordinator.