The NFL world is trying hard to start a relationship between Deion Sanders and the Dallas Cowboys. Owner Jerry Jones is conducting a head coach search, and rumors linking Coach Prime to the Cowboys are spreading all over the place.
With Mike McCarthy out and the Cowboys needing an overhaul after a 7-10 season, the possibility of Sanders taking the helm and transforming the culture in Dallas as he did in Colorado has become a hot topic.
Steve Mariucci Is Team Deion Sanders When It Comes to Cowboys Head Coaching Job
Former NFL head coach Steve Mariucci has weighed in on the idea, suggesting that “Coach Prime” might be the perfect fit for Jerry Jones’ franchise.
Speaking on NFL GameDay Saturday, Mariucci didn’t shy away from addressing the doubts surrounding Sanders’ NFL coaching experience.
“Some people think this is crazy because he has no coaching experience in the NFL at all. But I will say this—he’s coached a lot,” said Mariucci.
From youth football to the Power 5 level, Sanders’ coaching CV speaks to his ability to connect with players and foster success. “Try coaching youth football or high school football sometimes,” Mariucci added, praising Sanders’ ability to tackle unique challenges.
The 57-year-old, currently the head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, has made it clear he’s committed to staying in Boulder. However, the Hall of Famer and former Dallas cornerback has acknowledged Jones’ interest as humbling.
.@SteveMariucci is all in on @DeionSanders becoming the @dallascowboys next head coach 👀 pic.twitter.com/8b0J1gvlrf
— NFL GameDay (@NFLGameDay) January 18, 2025
Sanders’ accomplishments as a player—two Super Bowl rings, Defensive Player of the Year honors, and multiple All-Pro selections—are undeniable. Mariucci also highlighted Sanders’ ability to build culture, stating, “When Prime is in charge, he wants a certain kind of way with his young men… He teaches how to be a great human being.”
While Sanders’ approach doesn’t involve calling plays, his focus on locker room culture could be a game-changer for Dallas. Mariucci believes Sanders could unite the team and energize the fanbase, adding, “Heck, he might bring fans from all over the country.”
Still, there remains as much skepticism as optimism. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that while conversations between Sanders and Jones have occurred, no formal interview has been scheduled. “I would be surprised if an interview ever happens,” Rapoport stated.
From @NFLGameDay: A look at where the #Cowboys HC search stands… including that there is not yet an interview with #Colorado coach Deion Sanders on the horizon. pic.twitter.com/TeUhT00qI3
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 18, 2025
Sanders’ ties to the franchise and his status as a fan favorite could make him an ideal candidate to lead “America’s Team.” He has also received backing from NFL legends like Troy Aikman.