The Future of Jason Witten: From NFL Star to College Coaching?

For years, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has been quietly promoting the idea that Jason Witten could one day become a head coach in the NFL. He’s even drawn comparisons between Witten and Dan Campbell, the successful head coach of the Detroit Lions. In recent offseasons, there were reports that the Cowboys were considering Witten as part of Mike McCarthy’s coaching staff for the 2025 season, had McCarthy decided to stay on board.

However, it seems unlikely that Jones will offer Witten a high-profile role anytime soon. Instead, the college football world is already buzzing with speculation about Witten potentially landing an assistant coaching position at one of the most prestigious programs in the country: the Oklahoma Sooners.

A New Chapter for Witten?

The Sooners recently parted ways with their tight ends coach, Joe Jon Finley, creating a vacancy that many believe Witten could fill. According to On3.com, there have been rumors suggesting that Witten might be interested in transitioning to college football. While this hasn’t been officially confirmed, the possibility has sparked a lot of discussion among fans and analysts.

Witten, who played for the Cowboys for over a decade, has already made a name for himself as a successful high school football coach. At Liberty Christian, he led the team to a 35-5 record over three seasons, turning a struggling program into a multi-state champion. His experience in the NFL, combined with his success at the high school level, makes him a compelling candidate for a college coaching position.

Why the Sooners Might Be Interested

A to Z Sports’ college football expert, AJ Schulte, recently highlighted why the Sooners should consider hiring Witten. According to Schulte, Witten’s name recognition and pedigree could give the Sooners a significant advantage when it comes to recruiting. “His track record as a coach is intriguing,” Schulte said. “At Liberty Christian, he turned a struggling program into a multi-state champion in Texas virtually overnight.”

While the exact nature of Witten’s potential role at Oklahoma isn’t clear, his experience and credibility could bring a new level of professionalism to the coaching staff. For years, the Sooners have lacked a strong presence in the tight ends room, and Witten’s background in that position could help address that gap.

Another factor that could make Witten an attractive hire is his connection with current Oklahoma running backs coach Demarco Murray. The two were teammates during their time in Dallas, which could create a sense of familiarity and trust within the coaching staff.

Additionally, Witten’s son, Cooper, is a highly touted five-star recruit in the 2027 class, and the Sooners have been heavily recruiting him for several years. This personal connection could further strengthen the case for Witten joining the Oklahoma coaching staff.

Jerry Jones’ Perspective

If Witten were to take on a coaching role at the collegiate level, it’s safe to assume that Jerry Jones would be watching closely. Jones has long expressed his belief in Witten’s potential as a coach, and if the former star can build a stronger resume in higher levels of football, it could open the door for a future return to the NFL.

However, for now, it seems that Witten’s next step might be in college football. If he lands a position with the Sooners, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter in his career—one that could eventually lead to a return to the NFL.

What’s Next for Witten?

As of now, there are no official announcements regarding Witten’s future in coaching. But the growing speculation suggests that he may be considering a transition from player to coach. Whether that path leads him to the NFL or college football remains to be seen.

For now, fans and analysts alike are keeping a close eye on Witten’s next move, hoping to see how he will shape the next phase of his career.