Emmitt Smith Weighs in on Dallas Cowboys' Current State Amid Contractual Issues
Emmitt Smith, the legendary Dallas Cowboys running back, has never been one to shy away from expressing his thoughts. As one of the most iconic figures in the team's history, Smith has always held a vested interest in the franchise's direction and decisions. Recently, Smith, now 55 years old and nearly two decades into retirement, has been vocal in his criticism of the Cowboys' management, particularly concerning their handling of key players Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb.
"He is a very, very valuable asset to the Dallas Cowboys. He is a very, very valuable asset to Dak Prescott. Without him on the football field, they're putting all of the pressure on Dak Prescott now. And that is unacceptable," Smith said. The comment was targeted at CeeDee Lamb, the team's wide receiver currently holding out due to contractual issues.
Smith's frustration doesn't end there. He believes that the franchise quarterback, Dak Prescott, is being unfairly positioned. Prescott is currently playing under the final year of his contract, and the uncertainty surrounding his future is causing unease. "He should be in a position, as your franchise quarterback, he should be in a position to be successful. And right now you putting him behind the eight ball. And that is not right," Smith stated emphatically.
Adding to the turmoil, the Cowboys have let Tony Pollard go via free agency, opting instead to lean heavily on running back Ezekiel Elliott. Offensively, this move puts additional pressure on Prescott, a quarterback who thrives on having a balanced attack and reliable weapons at his disposal.
Brandin Cooks has now been positioned as the Cowboys' No. 2 wideout, a role that comes with enormous expectations. The reshuffling of the roster highlights the management's strategy, but whether it will lead to success remains a subject of debate.
Smith also reflected on the long-term issues plaguing the team. The Cowboys have not lifted the Super Bowl trophy in over two decades—a fact that frustrates not only the fans but also former stars like Smith. "Over the last 20-some odd years, watching our team get to the playoffs time and time again, being told that we're going to do better. This is going to be a Super Bowl year for us. And we just get completely let down," he lamented. The repeated cycle of hope and disappointment has been a bitter pill to swallow.
The former running back didn’t hold back on what he believes needs to be done to change the team’s fortunes. "We have to try, as an organization, we have to go and do a complete assessment in terms of the organization itself. What is our mission? And how does our mission align with the football team?" Smith questioned. His comments suggest a fundamental disconnect within the franchise, something he believes needs to be resolved quickly.
"On the surface we would think everything is in alignment. But to me, I think there's a little disconnect there. And we need to resolve that fairly quickly because 20-some odd years, man, that's a long time," he added. Smith's perspective is rooted in a desire to see the Cowboys reclaim their former glory.
As the season progresses, the spotlight will be on how the Cowboys navigate these challenges. The management’s handling of Lamb’s contractual holdout, Prescott’s contract year, and the reliance on Elliott will be crucial. The Cowboys’ fanbase, along with legends like Emmitt Smith, continue to watch closely, yearning for a return to success.