Mike McCarthy has been dismissed from his coaching role after being let go by the Dallas Cowboys following a five-year tenure. Before his time in Dallas, McCarthy served as the head coach of the Green Bay Packers for 13 years, until his release in 2018. His connections in the football community are extensive. 

As he prepares to build his new coaching staff for the Pittsburgh Steelers, McCarthy is expected to leverage these connections, focusing early on filling the positions of offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator.

Cowboys staffers in play in Mike McCarthy hiring decisions

Tight ends coach Lunda Wells from the Dallas Cowboys is expected to interview for the offensive coordinator position with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He has worked under head coach Mike McCarthy for all five seasons in Dallas. Wells has garnered interest from other teams, including interviews with the Washington Commanders, and recently made a strong impression at the Shrine Bowl.

McCarthy’s hiring in Pittsburgh has raised concerns in Dallas that at least two offensive assistants from Brian Schottenheimer’s staff may be tempted to join him in the AFC.

For the Packers touch, it’s important to pay attention to Patrick Graham. He has previously served as defensive coordinator for both the Giants and the Raiders, and he has also worked under Mike McCarthy in Green Bay. There are strong indications that he could be a candidate for the defensive coordinator role in Green Bay.

It appears McCarthy is relying on coaches familiar with his structure and preferences, a possible sign that the Pittsburgh Steelers are on the verge of rapid progress.