Minute-by-minute, story-by-story, we will report on what's going on here inside The Star and around the NFL in our Cowboys Coaching Carousel.

The New England Patriots have hired Mike Vrabel as their next head coach. The team announced the hiring Sunday morning. It comes a week after Patriots owner Robert Kraft fired Jerod Mayo after the team’s season finale victory over the Buffalo Bills to finish 4-13 in his lone season as coach.

Minute-by-minute, story-by-story, we will report on what's going on here inside The Star and around the NFL in our Cowboys Coaching Carousel.

The Cowboys' split with coach Mike McCarthy will have wide-ranging effects felt beyond Dallas. Who were the biggest winners and losers of the move?

According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, "Sources: Mike McCarthy is out as #Cowboys coach. The sides couldn't agree on length of contract and McCarthy will pursue other opportunities. He leaves Dallas with a winning record and three playoff appearances."

The Dallas Cowboys' job is both alluring and challenging thanks to several unique factors. But where does the position rank among the NFL's best?

DALLAS — Mike McCarthy is not expected to return as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, WFAA has confirmed Monday. ESPN insider Adam Schefter first reported that McCarthy and the Cowboys "engaged in no discussions about a new deal" and that McCarthy is now expected to be a candidate for the open coaching positions in New Orleans and Chicago.

Multiple reports indicated the Cowboys and McCarthy broke off contract talks on Monday because they couldn't agree on the length of a new deal. McCarthy's contract ended at the end of the season with Dallas holding exclusive negotiating rights until midnight on Jan. 14.

DALLAS — Mike McCarthy is not expected to return as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, WFAA has confirmed Monday. ESPN insider Adam Schefter first reported that McCarthy and the Cowboys "engaged in no discussions about a new deal" and that McCarthy is now expected to be a candidate for the open coaching positions in New Orleans and Chicago.

The Cowboys have denied the Bears' request to interview MIke McCarthy for their head coaching vacancy. What comes next?

Dallas' exclusive negotiating window with McCarthy runs until Jan. 14. Will Jerry Jones let him interview elsewhere or extend his deal?

If the Lions lose Saturday, Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson will be available to talk with teams in person beginning Jan. 20