Report: Mike McCarthy's future in Dallas uncertain as Cowboys deny Bears permission to interview him.

It's unclear if Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is certain about Mike McCarthy's future in Dallas, but he believes the veteran coach won't end up in Chicago.

ESPN reported Tuesday that the Cowboys denied the Bears permission to interview McCarthy for their head coaching vacancy, with sources stating that McCarthy's contract with the Cowboys is set to expire next week.

The Cowboys ended their season with a loss to the Washington Commanders on Sunday. Following the game, Jones commended McCarthy but did not confirm whether he would return next season.

Jones stated that Mike is one of the best coaches he believes exists. Although he was assigned to coach here, he has not diminished Jones' opinion of him as a coach. Jones has not yet decided on an extension.

"The following days and weeks will focus on that."

McCarthy stated that he wants to come back, even though his team has a 7-10 record this season, he believes in his abilities as a head coach.

"These decisions about whether you initially get the job or continue moving forward involve all those things. Therefore, I am confident in my ability to proceed with Jerry. There is no doubt in my mind."

Before this season, McCarthy led the Cowboys to the playoffs with a 12-5 record three straight seasons.

The Bears are in a desperate search to replace Matt Eberflus, who was fired following Chicago's Thanksgiving Day loss in Detroit. This marked the first time in franchise history a head coach was fired midseason, a clear indication of the team's struggles.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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