Owner Jerry Jones reiterated his support for coach Jason Garrett after Sunday's season-ending loss resulted in a third consecutive 8-8 finish for the Dallas Cowboys.
Garrett added Monday that he's had "positive conversations" with Jones about his future.
At this point, it would be a mild surprise if Garrett is not back in 2014.
Although Garrett cautioned that it's premature to discuss staff and scheme changes, he emphasized several times that the Cowboys have to get better on defense.
Team sources have told NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport that it's unlikely Monte Kiffin will return in 2014. The Cowboys are mulling a retirement package for the 73-year-old after his defense finished last in the league in yards per game.
Asked to evaluate Kiffin's performance in 2013, Garrett protested that now is not the right time. Paired with Rapoport's report, Garrett's silence speaks volumes.
The tea leaves suggest Garrett is staying and Kiffin is going.
The latest "Around The League Podcast" recapped all of the Week 17 action.