Ed "Too Tall" Jones, a towering figure in the realm of American football, was an integral member of the Dallas Cowboys, famously contributing to their victory in Super Bowl XII. Over a remarkable 15-year career, Jones accumulated an impressive 106 sacks, earning him a reputation as a formidable All-Pro defensive end. His career and insights continue to resonate within the NFL community, especially as the Cowboys have not seen Super Bowl action since January 1996.
Reflecting on his career and the shifting dynamics in the NFL, Jones often underscores the importance of seasoned players in achieving postseason success. He draws comparisons to contemporary teams such as Buffalo and Baltimore, noting the lack of Super Bowl-winning 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," Jones observed. "To be a champion, you've got to be able to get to another level.”
The Value of Veteran Leadership
Jones argues that the essence of championship teams lies in their internal leadership and the presence of players who have been through the rigors of a Super Bowl run. "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,” Jones said.
Jones isn't just referring to team captains but to experienced players who bring a different mentality to playoff scenarios. “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." This insight highlights why veterans who have navigated the challenges of Super Bowl games can be pivotal for a team’s postseason trajectory.
Dallas Cowboys' Missing Element
Jones's analysis extends to his own former team, the Dallas Cowboys. “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 remarked. He points out that while the Cowboys have been regular season contenders, their playoff performances suggest a missing veteran presence that could guide them through high-pressure games.
Having seen the impact of experienced players firsthand, Jones often recalls the dominant Pittsburgh Steelers teams of the '70s, stacked with veterans that outmaneuvered his young Cowboys squad in crucial matchups. "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.”
The Physical Toll and Triumph
After a storied career, Jones has had to face the physical toll that comes with years of professional football. Partnering with Sportcane, a newly designed walking aid, has significantly improved 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,” Jones shared. His endorsement of the product is a testament to its effectiveness and highlights the ongoing challenges retired athletes face.
Jones's perspective on veteran leadership and its impact on winning championships continues to be a valuable lens through which to view team dynamics in the NFL. His career, marked by high achievements and profound insights, remains a benchmark for both current players and strategists aiming to capture the elusive Super Bowl title.