Ed "Too Tall" Jones: A Legacy of Leadership and Perseverance
Ed "Too Tall" Jones stands as a towering figure in the storied history of the Dallas Cowboys, both literally and figuratively. As a key member of the team that triumphed in Super Bowl XII, Jones' impact on the field was undeniable. Over his impressive 15-year career, the former All-Pro defensive end racked up 106 sacks, a testament to his dominance and consistency.
Reflecting on the current state of NFL teams, Jones emphasizes the critical role that seasoned players play in achieving postseason success. "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," he notes. "To be a champion, you've got to be able to get to another level."
The importance of experience in big games is a recurring theme in Jones' observations. "What separates good players and good teams is teams who have players who can go to another level in big games," he explains. "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' own experiences with the Cowboys during their successful runs in the '90s further illustrate this point. The pivotal trade for Charles Haley under coach Jimmy Johnson played a crucial role in the team's resurgence. Haley, who already had two Super Bowl rings with the San Francisco 49ers, brought invaluable experience to the Cowboys. Soon after his arrival, Dallas clinched their first of three Super Bowl titles over a four-year span. "Dallas don’t have it. Several teams don’t have it," Jones asserts. "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 vividly recalls the challenges of facing the Pittsburgh Steelers in the '70s. "That Pittsburgh team had nothing but veterans on both sides of the ball. Nothing but veterans," he remembers. "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."
Beyond his on-field achievements, Jones has found a new lease on life through his partnership with Sportcane, a newly designed walking aid. "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 expresses. The product has significantly improved his mobility and quality of life, enabling him to stay active and engaged.
Jones' reflections extend to the pressures faced by the Cowboys due to their high-profile status. "That America's Team thing made us bulletin board material," he shares. "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."
In sum, Ed "Too Tall" Jones' career and insights offer valuable lessons for today's NFL teams. His emphasis on the importance of veteran leadership and experience provides a roadmap for achieving sustained success. As Jones continues to inspire both on and off the field, his legacy as a champion and a leader remains as tall as ever.