SEATTLE – Contrary to published reports, Bill Parcells does not have until Feb. 9, or five days after Super Bowl XLI, to decide if he wants to continue as the Cowboys' coach.
According to multiple sources, Parcells has an agreement with Jerry Jones to inform the Cowboys' owner and general manager by Feb. 1 whether he wants to keep coaching. The Feb. 9 deadline applied only if the Cowboys had made it to the Super Bowl.
Parcells has another year left on his contract, which he signed after last season, that will pay him $5.5 million.
After Saturday's 21-20 loss to Seattle, Parcells said he was unsure when he would make a decision, but he was not likely to meet with Jones this week. Jones reiterated that he wants Parcells to return next season.
"I think he is an outstanding coach," Jones said. "I have enjoyed working with him. I think we gave ourselves a chance this year to meet our goals. We didn't get them met, but we gave ourselves a chance to meet our goals. From the perspective of the Cowboys and from my own decision making, I do want Bill to continue to be the coach of the Cowboys."
Parcells is 34-32 with the Cowboys.
If he returns, there could be changes on the coaching staff. At least five assistants are in the final year of their deals, including defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, who has been paid $1 million a season for the last three years. Special teams coach Bruce DeHaven, running backs coach Anthony Lynn, offensive assistant David Lee and safeties coach Mike McIntyre also have contracts that expire shortly.
E-mail tarcher@dallasnews.com
