Ed "Too Tall" Jones, one of the towering figures in the history of the Dallas Cowboys, remains a pivotal name etched in the annals of NFL lore. Jones, a former All-Pro defensive end, made indelible contributions to the team that soared to victory in Super Bowl XII. Over an illustrious 15-year career, Jones accumulated an impressive 106 sacks, earning a reputation as a formidable force on the defensive line.
Reflecting on the success of championship teams, Jones emphasizes the critical role of seasoned players in achieving postseason glory. “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 asserts, highlighting the value of experienced leadership.
The Dallas Cowboys' last appearance in the Super Bowl dates back to January 1996, a period marked by strategic moves under coach Jimmy Johnson. One of the most transformative trades of that era was for Charles Haley, a player with two Super Bowl rings from his time with the San Francisco 49ers. Haley's arrival catalyzed the Cowboys' rise, leading to their first of three Super Bowl titles over four seasons. Jones attributes much of this success to Haley's veteran presence, noting that “What separates good players and good teams is teams who have players who can go to another level in big games.”
Jones believes that having experienced individuals in the locker room can significantly influence a team's playoff performance. “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,” he advises. The wisdom and calmness such players bring can often bridge the gap between regular-season success and postseason triumph.
Discussing the current state of the Cowboys and other NFL teams, Jones points out a crucial missing element. “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.” His observations underline the importance of internal leadership beyond just captains—players who have navigated the pressures of championship games and emerged victorious.
Jones also reminisces about the fierce competition and veteran-laden opponents of his playing days, particularly the Pittsburgh Steelers. “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.” These experiences had a profound impact on Jones, reinforcing his belief in the value of experience during critical matchups.
Aside from his illustrious football career, Jones has recently partnered with Sportcane, a newly designed walking aid that has significantly enhanced 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.” This partnership underscores the ongoing impact of sports and technology in assisting former athletes in maintaining their health and independence.
Jones further reflects on the challenges his team faced due to their popularity. “That America's Team thing made us bulletin board material... 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.” These words capture the relentless pressure and scrutiny the Cowboys endured, a testament to their dominance and the high expectations they carried.
Ed "Too Tall" Jones’ reflections offer invaluable insights into the dynamics of NFL success, the importance of veteran leadership, and the enduring challenges faced by top-tier teams. His legacy as a player is matched by his keen understanding of what it takes to achieve greatness in the world of professional football.