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Given that Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has had final say over nearly all personnel decisions for decades, it’s almost rare that members of the Cowboys front office get general manager opportunities for other teams. But one Cowboys executive appears to be getting his chance.
According to ESPN Cowboys insider Todd Archer, both the Washington Commanders and Carolina Panthers have requested to interview Cowboys Vice President of Player Personnel Will McClay for their front office positions. McClay has worked in the personnel department since 2014 but has over 20 years of experience working in the organization.
“Confirming other reports: the Washington Commanders and Carolina Panthers have asked for permission to speak with Cowboys VP of Player Personnel Will McClay. He’s been Cowboys lead personnel person since 2014,” Archer wrote.
Will McClay played football professionally from 1989 to 1992 before going into coaching. By 1997, he was splitting time between being an assistant coach and a front office executive for various minor league teams.
McClay was hired as a scout by the Cowboys in 2003 as a scout, all while serving as head coach of the Arena Football League’s Dallas Desperados.
After the Desperados folded, McClay was promoted within the Cowboys front office and has continued climbing ever since.
Can McClay get a general manager position?