The worst-kept secret in the NFL officially is out.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones told reporters Tuesday that offensive coordinator Bill Callahan will handle play-calling duties this season, taking over the role previously held by coach Jason Garrett.
Jones said the decision had been made weeks ago. Back in February, Garrett told reporters that a play-calling decision might not come until after the Cowboys' first preseason game. That seemed odd at the time, and it turned out not to be the case.
Clarence Hill of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram said Callahan later "reluctantly" confirmed his new role, saying he wanted to defer to Garrett on the move becoming official.
Oddly, Garrett would not confirm that Callahan would call plays when he addressed the media Tuesday, according to Calvin Watkins of ESPN Dallas. When asked if he'd like to see team decisions revealed differently than how Jones chooses to, Garrett said "I think you can draw your own conclusions."
But when discussing Callahan's coaching acumen, Garrett heaped praise upon his offensive coordinator.
"He's a guy that I've learned a great deal from since he's been here," Garrett said. "Admired him from afar before, and really, really respect his work since he's been working here with the Cowboys."
Garrett is in playoffs-or-bust mode. This is just the latest sign pointing to that obvious reality.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @DanHanzus.
