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3 Cowboys Mike McCarthy Could Lure to Steelers
Former Dallas head coach McCarthy could raid his old team's roster after taking Steelers job.
Jan. 27, 2026 at 5:07pm
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After a disappointing tenure with the Dallas Cowboys, Mike McCarthy has joined the Pittsburgh Steelers as their new head coach. As the Cowboys face salary cap constraints, McCarthy may look to poach some of his former players, including wide receiver Jalen Tolbert, running back Javonte Williams, and defensive tackle Kenny Clark.
Why it matters
McCarthy's move to the Steelers could further weaken the Cowboys' roster, especially if he is able to lure away key players like Tolbert, Williams, and Clark. This could give the Steelers a boost while hurting one of the Cowboys' NFC East rivals.
The details
Jalen Tolbert, a 2022 third-round pick, had a breakout season under McCarthy in his final year with the Cowboys, leading the team with seven touchdown receptions. Javonte Williams, an underrated running back, could be an ideal fit for the Steelers' run-first identity. And Kenny Clark, who McCarthy drafted when he was with the Packers, could be a trade target for the Steelers given the Cowboys' acquisition of Quinnen Williams.
- Mike McCarthy was hired as the new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers in January 2026.
The players
Mike McCarthy
The former head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, who has now joined the Pittsburgh Steelers in the same role.
Jalen Tolbert
A wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys who had a breakout season under McCarthy in 2025.
Javonte Williams
A running back for the Dallas Cowboys who could be an ideal fit for the Steelers' run-first offense.
Kenny Clark
A defensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys who was drafted by McCarthy when he was the head coach of the Green Bay Packers.
What’s next
The Cowboys will need to closely monitor the free agency and trade market to ensure they don't lose any key players to their former head coach in Pittsburgh.
The takeaway
Mike McCarthy's move to the Steelers could have significant implications for the Cowboys, as he may look to poach some of his former players to bolster the Steelers' roster. This could further weaken the Cowboys and give their NFC East rival a boost, making it an important storyline to follow in the offseason.
