IRVING – Jerry Jones planned to interview one or possibly two more candidates for the Cowboys vacant head coaching job, but several issues prevented that Monday.
Travel and the sensitivity of interviewing two coaches involved with Super Bowl XLI are the main reasons.
The Cowboys owner/general manager left Miami, site of Super Bowl XLI, on Sunday night and spent Monday in his Valley Ranch office pondering his next move.
He could interview Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Ron Rivera, who has expressed an interest in the job.
Jones could also speak with Indianapolis Colts assistant head coach Jim Caldwell, who received glowing endorsements from coach Tony Dungy and quarterback Peyton Manning.
"There's no question he's ready," Manning said. "I certainly don't want him to leave, being selfish in that regard. But there's no question he's ready to be a head coach either in the NFL or at the collegiate level."
The Cowboys haven't asked for permission from the Colts or Bears to speak to either coach, although both teams are expected to consent.
The timing of talking to either coach Monday might not have been appropriate given the emotions involved.
Caldwell was celebrating the Colts' victory in Indianapolis, and Rivera was left in disappointment by how the Bears' season ended. Jones could talk to either today or Wednesday or simply choose from among the eight candidates who have interviewed. He also said he may talk to one or more of those eight again.
On Saturday, Jones said he wanted to make a decision in the early part of this week but wasn't committed to doing so.
Nguyen may join staff: Former Cowboys linebacker Dat Nguyen is talking to the Cowboys about joining the coaching staff, according to sources. Nguyen interviewed with the University of Houston about becoming an assistant coach a few weeks ago. If Nguyen, who played with the Cowboys from 1999 to 2005, is hired by the Cowboys it will occur after a head coach is hired.
Staff writer Todd Archer contributed to this report.
