Ed "Too Tall" Jones: The Veteran Leader the Cowboys Could Use Today
Ed "Too Tall" Jones is more than just a memorable name in the annals of the Dallas Cowboys' storied history; he is a legend who epitomized defensive prowess and leadership. As a key member of the Cowboys team that clinched victory in Super Bowl XII, Jones etched his name in NFL history. Over his illustrious 15-year career, Jones amassed an impressive 106 sacks, earning him a reputation as one of the NFL's most formidable defensive ends.
The Importance of Veteran Leadership
Jones, a former All-Pro defensive end, firmly believes that veteran players play a crucial role in achieving postseason success. Reflecting on contemporary teams like Buffalo and Baltimore, he notes a glaring absence of Super Bowl experience in their locker rooms. "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 remarked.
According to Jones, postseason success is often determined by the presence of players who have "been there, done that." He emphasizes that such players bring a higher level of performance and understanding to crucial playoff games. "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," he explained.
Cowboys' Legacy and Missing Elements
The Dallas Cowboys have not reached the Super Bowl since January 1996, a gap that Jones implies could be bridged with the right mix of leadership and experience. Under coach Jimmy Johnson in the '90s, the Cowboys made a pivotal trade for Charles Haley, who had already won two rings with the San Francisco 49ers before joining Dallas. Haley's addition proved instrumental as the Cowboys secured their first of three Super Bowl titles over a four-year span soon after his arrival.
Jones attributes much of the Cowboys' success during that era to their internal leadership and chemistry. He argues that coaches alone cannot propel a team to championship glory; instead, it requires seasoned veterans who can inspire and guide the locker room. "That is definitely one of the things. 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," Jones emphasized.
Reflecting on the Cowboys’ historic battles with the veteran-laden Pittsburgh Steelers in the '70s, Jones acknowledges the difference experience can make. "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," he recalled.
The Challenge of Being "America's Team"
Jones also spoke about the pressures of playing for a team as celebrated as the Dallas Cowboys, famously known as "America's Team." This label often made them a prime target for opponents. "That America's Team thing made us bulletin board material. Well, we were a target every time we stepped on the field. We got a team's best. Picture having to deal with that every Sunday. That’s not easy," Jones said, emphasizing the mental fortitude required to maintain high performance levels week in and week out.
Post-Career Life and Support from Sportcane
In his post-football life, Jones has faced the physical challenges that many former athletes encounter. Finding a reliable mobility aid was crucial for him. Jones has partnered with Sportcane, a newly designed walking aid, which he credits with significantly improving his mobility and quality of 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," he shared.
As the Cowboys strive to return to their former glory, the insights and experiences shared by Ed “Too Tall” Jones serve as a reminder of the importance of veteran leadership and the impact it can have on a team's success. His storied career and observations provide valuable lessons not only to the Cowboys but to the entire NFL.