In the ever-evolving landscape of NFL coaching, few figures stand as prominently as Jason Garrett. An alumni of the Dallas Cowboys, Garrett's journey through the franchise’s ranks is a testament to both his resilience and ability to adapt in a challenging environment.
From Quarterback to Coach
Garrett's association with the Cowboys began on the field. Between 1993 and 1999, he served as a quarterback and, despite not frequently being a starter, he left an indelible mark by securing victories in six out of his nine starts. His understanding of the game from a player’s perspective laid a solid foundation for his transition to coaching.
The shift from player to coach is often a formidable one, but Garrett embraced it with vigor. By 2007, he was orchestrating the Cowboys' offense as the team’s offensive coordinator, a role he executed with distinction until 2010. His aptitude for strategy and play-calling didn’t go unnoticed, and soon he was poised for a larger role within the organization.
Leading the Dallas Cowboys
In 2010, Garrett stepped into the leadership vacuum as the interim head coach. His ability to lead and communicate effectively, both with his team and the organization, became evident: "When I say communicating and leading, it's not only to your staff and to your team, it's also leading upward in the organization," Garrett once reflected. His interim status quickly evolved into a full-time head coach role in 2011, marking the beginning of nearly a decade at the helm.
Under Garrett’s guidance, the Cowboys achieved an overall 85-67 record and made three playoff appearances. His efforts culminated in being named the NFL Coach of the Year in 2016, a nod to his prowess in navigating the complexities of the league. Garrett’s tenure, however, was also marked by the Cowboys' struggles in advancing past playoff hurdles, with the team failing to reach the NFC title game despite 13 consecutive playoff appearances since 1995.
Insights from Experience
Garrett does not shy away from sharing insights gleaned from his time with the Cowboys. Praising the franchises that exemplify success, he mentioned teams like Kansas City, Buffalo, and Baltimore as benchmarks: "Look at the obvious examples: Kansas City, Buffalo, Baltimore, some of the other ones..." These franchises represent continuity and success, elements Garrett aimed to instill in the Cowboys' culture.
Reflecting on his interactions with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, Garrett acknowledged the unique challenges of the role. "I learned a tremendous amount from Jerry Jones during my time there as a player, as an assistant coach, and as a head coach," he noted. His tenure coincided with a period in which Jones’ leadership and methods were well-established: "Jerry is 82 years old, and he's done things a certain way for a long, long time..." This relationship was pivotal in shaping his approach as a coach, highlighting the balance between innovation and tradition.
New Beginnings as an Analyst
After his coaching chapter with the Cowboys closed in 2019, Garrett transitioned to a role as an analyst for NBC Sports. His deep understanding of the game and ability to articulate complex strategies make him a valuable voice in sports media. The position allows him to reflect on his storied career and share a wealth of knowledge with a broader audience.
Garrett’s narrative is one of perseverance and adaptability, characterized by a seamless progression from player to coach, and now to analyst. His journey within the NFL is a reminder of the multifaceted roles that contribute to the rich tapestry of professional football, and the continuous evolution required to thrive at its highest levels.