In the annals of NFL history, few names resonate with the same gritty determination and memorable impact as Ed "Too Tall" Jones. A core pillar of the Dallas Cowboys team that clinched victory in Super Bowl XII, Jones solidified his legend with a career spanning 15 distinguished years and accumulating an impressive 106 sacks. More than just numbers, Jones' presence on the gridiron embodied the fierce spirit and leadership crucial for postseason triumphs.
As a former All-Pro defensive end, Jones’ insights into what it takes to win are both hard-earned and respected. Reflecting on today’s NFL teams, Jones draws stark comparisons between the modern squads and the championship rosters of his era. "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. His point underscores the invaluable currency of experience, particularly in the high-stakes environment of the playoffs.
Jones knows firsthand the razor-thin margins that separate good teams from great ones. "What separates good players and good teams is teams who have players who can go to another level in big games," he said. "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." Indeed, the wisdom carried by veterans who have navigated the crucible of Super Bowl pressure can weave through a team, uplift young talents, and fortify internal leadership.
The Dallas Cowboys, an iconic franchise with a mixed bag of recent post-season performances, have not seen a Super Bowl appearance since January 1996. Under coach Jimmy Johnson in the 1990s, the Cowboys executed a pivotal trade for Charles Haley, a move that reaped significant benefits. Not only did Haley bring his double-ring experience from the 49ers, but he spurred the Cowboys on to win their first of three Super Bowl titles over a transformative four-year span. It's a testament to Jones' belief in the magic forged through experienced leadership.
Jones elaborates on the timeless necessity of such figures in locker rooms, emphasizing that it isn't only about captains. "That is definitely one of the things,” he explained. “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."
Discussing the current state of the Cowboys and the broader NFL landscape, Jones didn’t mince words. "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."
Jones draws on his own experiences, reflecting on the formidable Pittsburgh Steelers teams that they faced in the '70s. "That Pittsburgh team had nothing but veterans on both sides of the ball. Nothing but veterans," he said. "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."
In retirement, Ed "Too Tall" Jones has faced different battles off the field, yet he continues to adapt and overcome. He’s found a new ally in Sportcane, a modern, innovative walking aid that has significantly enhanced his mobility. "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 Sportcane showcases not only his resilience but also his willingness to embrace tools that offer a better quality of life.
Jones’ journey from a dominating defensive end to a veteran ambassador for mobility aids underscores the enduring warrior spirit that defined his career. For NFL teams aspiring to greatness, his lessons on the necessity of seasoned leadership remain as poignant as ever. In the locker rooms of today and the strategies of tomorrow, the echoes of veterans like Jones continue to guide the path to championship glory.