In the middle of a difficult season for the Cowboys, Jerry Jones conveyed a slight sense of optimism for his belief in Mike McCarthy's future as the team's head coach.

Dallas Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy has been part of a roller coaster season that has featured more downs than ups through 12 weeks. With his team sitting at 4-7 in the final season of his five-year contract, the assumption has been that the team will move on from his services in the offseason.

From a health standpoint, this season has pushed the Cowboys to the brink. It’s a franchise that’s lost four defensive ends, a starting play-caller, both starting corners, its No. 2 receiver, a starting linebacker along with starters at left tackle and guards to injuries.