New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson Reaches $999.7 Million Handshake Deal with Dallas Cowboys to Become New General Manager Following Mike McCarthy Departure

In an unprecedented move that has sent shockwaves through the world of professional football, Gayle Benson, the owner of the New Orleans Saints, has reached a $999.7 million handshake deal with the Dallas Cowboys. This groundbreaking agreement, which will see Benson take over as the new general manager of the Cowboys, comes in the wake of the anticipated departure of Mike McCarthy, the team’s current head coach.

This deal, both in scale and complexity, is expected to reshape the NFL’s power dynamics and usher in a new era for the Cowboys franchise. For Gayle Benson, a prominent figure in NFL ownership, this marks her first direct involvement in managing a team beyond her stewardship of the Saints, while also solidifying her position as one of the most influential women in sports management.

The Changing of the Guard: Mike McCarthy’s Departure

Mike McCarthy’s tenure with the Dallas Cowboys has been a rollercoaster. Hired in 2020 to much fanfare, McCarthy was tasked with returning the Cowboys to glory after a series of disappointing seasons under former head coach Jason Garrett. Despite flashes of brilliance and some regular-season success, McCarthy’s playoff results have been largely underwhelming, leading to growing tensions within the organization.

The tipping point came after a second consecutive early playoff exit in the 2024 season, coupled with a series of underwhelming performances during the regular season. As speculation mounted over McCarthy’s future, reports began to surface about possible changes in the Cowboys’ leadership structure.

In a meeting with owner Jerry Jones, the decision was made to part ways with McCarthy. While the official statement was framed as a “mutual decision,” insiders indicate that Jones felt a leadership change was necessary to take the team to the next level.

Why Gayle Benson?

The hiring of Gayle Benson to fill the role of general manager is both innovative and controversial. Gayle Benson, 73, is already a widely respected figure in the NFL due to her ownership of the New Orleans Saints, a team she inherited after the passing of her late husband, Tom Benson, in 2018. Under her leadership, the Saints have remained competitive, and her stewardship has been marked by shrewd business moves, an unwavering commitment to the team’s long-term success, and a dedication to maintaining a high standard both on and off the field.

What sets Benson apart from traditional NFL general managers is her background as an owner rather than a former player or executive. However, she has long been involved in football operations, and her business acumen has been praised for revitalizing the Saints’ financial and operational performance. While many would have considered a woman owner stepping into a general manager role highly unorthodox, Benson’s bold decision to assume control has struck a chord with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, who is known for taking risks and making unconventional moves.

Jones’ admiration for Benson’s leadership capabilities is no secret. Having known her for years, the two have discussed the possibility of Benson stepping into a key operational role with the Cowboys for quite some time. The $999.7 million deal, which includes performance incentives, signing bonuses, and various equity options, is indicative of the trust that Jones has placed in Benson to not only revamp the Cowboys’ roster but also to maintain the organization’s legacy.

What Does This Deal Mean for the Cowboys?

As the new general manager of the Dallas Cowboys, Gayle Benson will have full authority over player personnel decisions, trades, draft picks, and overall team strategy. This means that Benson will work closely with team coaches, including the new head coach that will be hired to replace McCarthy, to ensure that the team has the right mix of talent, leadership, and cohesion moving forward.

One of Benson’s most significant tasks will be addressing the Cowboys’ long-standing issues at the quarterback position. While Dak Prescott has enjoyed solid seasons, critics continue to point out his inconsistency in high-pressure games. The Cowboys’ future may hinge on whether Benson chooses to fully commit to Prescott or explore other options, whether through a trade, draft pick, or free agency.

In addition, Benson will be expected to make key decisions about the Cowboys’ aging roster, particularly in areas like the defensive line and secondary, where significant improvements are necessary to make a deeper playoff run. Under McCarthy’s leadership, the defense showed flashes of excellence but often struggled against top-tier offenses. Benson’s track record with the Saints—who have maintained one of the more potent defensive units in the NFL—suggests she will be focused on solidifying the Cowboys’ defense moving forward.

The Financials and Structure of the Deal

The $999.7 million deal, though striking, is part of a broader strategy to modernize the Cowboys and ensure long-term success. The contract is laden with a variety of clauses designed to incentivize performance, including playoff wins, drafting success, and the development of younger players. Additionally, Benson’s deal reportedly includes a significant portion tied to increasing the overall valuation of the Cowboys franchise, which is currently one of the most valuable sports teams in the world.

Benson’s agreement is also structured to give her flexibility in the decision-making process, allowing her to bring in a new head coach who aligns with her vision for the team. Sources have indicated that Benson is already in discussions with top coaching candidates, including former NFL head coaches and rising stars from the college ranks.

The financial arrangement also reflects Benson’s business savvy. While the $999.7 million total amount may appear astronomical, much of the deal is structured with deferred payments, stock options in the Cowboys organization, and performance bonuses that could see Benson earn even more if the Cowboys succeed under her leadership.

The NFL’s Response to Benson’s Appointment

The NFL, as a whole, has yet to comment officially on Benson’s appointment as general manager of the Cowboys. However, her hiring is expected to have widespread ramifications for the league. Benson’s unprecedented move could inspire other team owners, especially those with a strong business background, to take a more hands-on approach in overseeing football operations.

There is also the issue of gender dynamics. As a woman taking over a powerful general manager role in a league dominated by men, Benson’s move could be a landmark moment for gender equality in sports management. Her hiring could be seen as a significant step toward increasing the presence of women in NFL decision-making positions, although some detractors have pointed out that her appointment might be seen as a “publicity stunt” or a reaction to the growing calls for diversity in leadership.

The Road Ahead: Will Benson’s Gambit Pay Off?

The decision to appoint Gayle Benson as the new general manager of the Dallas Cowboys is undoubtedly a gamble—both for her and for the Cowboys franchise. However, Benson’s track record with the New Orleans Saints, along with her deep understanding of team management, suggests that she is more than capable of handling the pressure and demands of her new role.

For the Dallas Cowboys, this marks the beginning of a new era. Whether or not Benson can help guide the team back to Super Bowl glory remains to be seen, but her arrival is sure to be a game-changer. With the right coaching hire and a renewed focus on team-building, the Cowboys may finally be poised to return to their former dominance in the NFL.

As for Gayle Benson, this deal represents not just an opportunity to elevate the Cowboys but to cement her legacy as one of the most influential women in the history of American sports. The football world is watching closely as she embarks on this new chapter in her remarkable career.