Ed "Too Tall" Jones is synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys' golden era, an era where talent and experience merged to usher in Super Bowl success. A towering figure on the defensive line, Jones' storied NFL career saw him accumulate an impressive 106 sacks over 15 years. But Jones' legacy goes beyond mere statistics; his insight into what it takes to mold a championship team is invaluable.
A Veteran’s Perspective on Leadership
With the NFL's postseason often demanding more than just skill and strategy, Jones emphasizes the importance of veteran presence. “If you look at these teams now that make the playoffs, like Buffalo, Baltimore, all those teams, they don't have anybody on those teams that won a Super Bowl in that locker room. To be a champion, you've got to be able to get to another level,” Jones notes. His observations underline a recurring theme: the irreplaceable value of playoff experience.
Jones believes that seasoned players bring a dimension to teams that is hard to quantify but crucial for success. “What separates good players and good teams is teams who have players who can go to another level in big games. Every general manager in the league should be out trying to pick up a guy that gets cut or something that's been to a Super Bowl and put him in that locker room. It makes a big difference.”
The Missing Element for Modern Teams
The Dallas Cowboys, a team historically accustomed to success, have faced a prolonged Super Bowl drought since their last appearance in January 1996. This hiatus, according to Jones, is partly due to the lack of veteran leadership. “Who will they follow? Dallas don’t have it. Several teams don’t have it. That’s just one of the things. They’re missing a few horses in key positions, too, but oftentimes, when you have the right leadership and the right chemistry, you make up for it,” he explains.
The Cowboys' triumphant period under coach Jimmy Johnson in the 1990s saw the pivotal acquisition of Charles Haley, a seasoned defender who brought with him the experience of two Super Bowl victories with the San Francisco 49ers. This move, Jones argues, was instrumental in the Cowboys' subsequent success. “The team plays too well every year. They win 12 games every year and they’re a different animal in the playoffs. Coaches can't do it all to put you over the top. You must have internal leadership. I’m not just talking about captains. I'm talking about a guy in that locker room that’s been there, done that, knows what he’s talking about, and players will follow.”
Reflecting on the Past
Jones’ own experiences with the Cowboys provide a vivid backdrop to his observations. The tumultuous battles against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1970s, where the Cowboys narrowly missed out on Super Bowl titles, remain etched in his memory. “That Pittsburgh team had nothing but veterans on both sides of the ball. Nothing but veterans. We were a very young team both times when they beat us in '75 and when they beat us in '78, even though we only lost by four points both games and [Roger] Staubach had the ball driving [late] in those games. I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team because experience in big games is very important. Very important.”
This nuanced understanding of the game and the critical role of experienced players provides a roadmap for modern teams chasing elusive postseason glory. Jones believes that a blend of youthful energy and veteran savvy can overcome even the most daunting challenges, as was the case during his playing days.
Life Beyond the Field
Beyond his contributions to football, Jones has found new ways to impact lives. His partnership with Sportcane, a newly designed walking aid, has profoundly affected his post-football life. “I don’t know what I would do if it wasn’t for the Sportcane as far as being able to get around and still not letting anything hinder what I do in life.” This advancement has allowed him to maintain his mobility and quality of life, underscoring the transformative power of innovation and support.
Ed "Too Tall" Jones remains a towering figure, not only for his defensive prowess but for his wisdom on what it takes to achieve greatness in the NFL. His insights continue to resonate, offering a blend of nostalgia and practicality for both fans and aspiring champions. The Cowboys' legend is a testament to the enduring power of experience and leadership in the world of professional sports.