As the Georgia Bulldogs continue to assert their dominance in college football this season, speculation arises about whether legendary head coach Kirby Smart might be ready for a new challenge in the NFL.
Many prominent college coaches have expressed a desire to test their skills at the highest level, and Smart could be the next to make that leap.
Historically, the Dallas Cowboys have benefited from successful transitions of college coaches to the NFL, with both Jimmy Johnson and Barry Switzer leading the team to Super Bowl victories after their college careers. This pattern has not gone unnoticed by Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, who turns 82 this month and is eager to capture one last Super Bowl title before stepping down.
Since 2021, Smart has led the Bulldogs to an outstanding 45-3 record and two national championships. With an annual salary of $13 million, he ranks among the highest-paid coaches in all of football, behind only Andy Reid, Sean Payton, and Sean McVay.
Despite the lucrative position and a program poised for long-term success, the allure of the NFL may be tempting for Smart.
Could Smart cope with the Cowboys and the pressure that comes with the job?
Smart’s coaching philosophy mirrors that of Johnson, emphasizing a robust defense, effective running, and efficient quarterback play. Given Jerry Jones’s history of winning Super Bowls with both Johnson and Switzer, it’s reasonable to consider whether he would look to Smart as a potential successor.
Currently, the Cowboys are struggling with a 2-2 record, facing issues on both offense and defense. Recent injuries to key players, Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, have further complicated their situation. These challenges have placed head coach Mike McCarthy under significant scrutiny. If the Cowboys fail to achieve playoff success this season, a coaching change seems likely.
With Smart’s proven track record and the Cowboys’ present struggles, the idea of him stepping into the role of head coach in Dallas is a compelling one.
As the season progresses, attention will be drawn to both the Bulldogs’ performance and the future direction of the Cowboys, with Kirby Smart’s name likely to surface in discussions about potential coaching leadership for the franchise.
