NEWS REPORT: Kellen Moore and the Dallas Cowboys – A Missed Opportunity?
In the whirlwind of NFL coaching changes and speculation, Kellen Moore, the former offensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, was long rumored to have had aspirations to take the reins as the team’s head coach. However, recent developments suggest that such an opportunity never materialized, leaving fans and analysts questioning what might have been.
Moore’s Tenure in Dallas
Kellen Moore’s tenure with the Cowboys began as a backup quarterback before transitioning to the coaching staff in 2018. By 2019, he was promoted to offensive coordinator, a role in which he quickly gained recognition for his innovative play-calling and ability to maximize the talent of players like Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott, and CeeDee Lamb. Under his guidance, the Cowboys frequently ranked among the league’s top offenses, further solidifying his reputation as one of the brightest young minds in the game.
Despite his success, whispers of his desire to ascend to the head coaching position in Dallas never fully quieted. Speculation only grew after the team’s inconsistent performances under head coach Mike McCarthy. Many believed Moore, a homegrown talent familiar with the Cowboys’ culture and system, was the logical successor should the franchise decide to make a change.
A Dream Deferred
Sources close to Moore suggest he was deeply interested in the Cowboys’ top job, but the opportunity never came. The franchise has remained steadfast in its commitment to McCarthy, particularly after the Cowboys secured playoff appearances under his leadership. McCarthy’s strong rapport with owner Jerry Jones and his experience as a Super Bowl-winning coach likely weighed heavily in the decision to retain him.
The lack of opportunity for Moore in Dallas contrasts sharply with his swift hiring by the Los Angeles Chargers as their offensive coordinator. Joining forces with quarterback Justin Herbert, Moore now has the chance to shape another high-powered offense and potentially position himself for a head coaching role elsewhere.
What Could Have Been?
Moore’s departure from Dallas raises questions about what the future holds for both parties. Could the Cowboys regret not promoting Moore, particularly if he finds success elsewhere? Some analysts argue that Moore’s creative offensive schemes could have been the key to finally breaking through the team’s postseason struggles.
On the other hand, the Cowboys’ decision to stick with McCarthy reflects a commitment to stability. McCarthy has brought the team consistent regular-season success, and his ability to lead a veteran roster remains a point of confidence for the organization.
Moore’s Path Forward
For Kellen Moore, the move to the Chargers represents a fresh start and a chance to expand his coaching resume. Los Angeles offers him a dynamic quarterback in Justin Herbert and a talented roster primed for playoff contention. Should Moore succeed in elevating the Chargers’ offense, his name is likely to surface again in head coaching discussions.
The Final Word
As the NFL continues to evolve, coaching decisions often shape the fortunes of franchises. While it’s unclear whether Moore will ultimately land his dream job, his journey from a promising offensive coordinator in Dallas to a pivotal role in Los Angeles highlights the unpredictable nature of professional football.
For Cowboys fans, the lingering question remains: Did they let the next great head coach slip through their fingers? Time—and Moore’s continued career trajectory—will provide the answer.
