Ed "Too Tall" Jones: The Legacy of a Defensive Titan
Ed "Too Tall" Jones remains an iconic figure in the history of the Dallas Cowboys, revered for his dominant presence on the field and his invaluable contributions to the team's success, most notably their triumph in Super Bowl XII. Over his remarkable 15-year career, Jones accumulated an impressive 106 sacks, carving out a legacy as one of the game's premier defensive ends.
A former All-Pro, Jones's impact on the Cowboys extends beyond his stats. His belief in the importance of veteran leadership in achieving postseason success is a testament to his understanding of the game's nuances. "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 explains.
The Cowboys' journey to their last Super Bowl appearance in January 1996 featured critical strategic decisions, including the pivotal trade for Charles Haley under coach Jimmy Johnson. Haley, a seasoned player with two rings from his time with the San Francisco 49ers, brought much-needed experience to the team. This acquisition paid off as the Cowboys clinched the first of three Super Bowl titles within four years of Haley's arrival.
Jones emphasizes the significance of having players who excel in crucial moments. "What separates good players and good teams is teams who have players who can go to another level in big games. 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 asserts.
When reflecting on the challenges faced by the Cowboys and other teams, Jones notes that internal leadership is crucial for postseason success. “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,” he says.
Jones further elaborates that several teams, including Dallas, lack this essential 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,” he adds.
Recounting battles against the veteran-laden Pittsburgh Steelers, Jones highlights the importance of experienced players in high-stakes games. “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. I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team because experience in big games is very important. Very important,” he reflects.
Beyond the football field, Jones's life took an unexpected turn when he partnered with Sportcane, a newly designed walking aid. The partnership has significantly improved 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,” Jones shares, expressing gratitude for the product that helps him maintain an active lifestyle.
Ed "Too Tall" Jones's career and insights offer valuable lessons in leadership, teamwork, and the enduring impact of experience. As teams across the league strive for postseason glory, Jones's perspective underscores the vital role of seasoned veterans in achieving ultimate success.