Emmitt Smith, an iconic figure in Dallas Cowboys history, has voiced his concerns over the current management of the team, particularly regarding their handling of key players Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb.
Now 55 and nearly two decades into retirement, Smith's insights carry significant weight. His recent critique, aimed squarely at Cowboys' management, highlights several issues that could impact the team's prospects in the upcoming season.
Leadership Decisions Under Fire
Smith did not mince words when discussing the Cowboys’ treatment of Dak Prescott, the franchise quarterback who is playing under the final year of his contract. "He should be in a position, as your franchise quarterback, he should be in a position to be successful," Smith said. "And right now, you [are] putting him behind the eight ball. And that is not right."
His comments underscore the tension surrounding Prescott's uncertain future with the team. Amid these contract negotiations, CeeDee Lamb, one of Prescott's top targets, is holding out due to contractual issues. Smith pointed out the significance of Lamb in Prescott's performance: "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."
Offensive Weaponry in Question
The Cowboys’ offensive strategy has also come under scrutiny, especially with the departure of Tony Pollard via free agency. The team is now leaning heavily on Ezekiel Elliott, a move that raises questions about their depth and adaptability. Brandin Cooks, now the No. 2 wideout for the Cowboys, will need to step up significantly as the team navigates these changes.
This reshuffling places additional pressure on Prescott, who, without Lamb and with Elliott as the primary back, faces a steeper challenge in leading the offense. Smith's frustration is palpable: "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."
An Extended Super Bowl Drought
The Cowboys have not lifted the Lombardi Trophy in over two decades, a fact that weighs heavily on Smith and the team's fan base. "Over the last 20-some odd years, [we’ve been] 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," Smith lamented.
His remarks suggest that not only does the team need a strategic overhaul, but perhaps an organizational assessment as well. "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 asked, pointing to the deeper issues that may be plaguing the team's long-term success.
A Need for Immediate Change
Smith’s call for introspection is a clarion call for the Cowboys to reassess their mission and its alignment with their football operations. The lingering disconnect he mentions could be the root of the team’s inability to convert regular-season success into championship victories.
As the Cowboys prepare for another season, the management's decisions in the coming months will be critical. Ensuring Prescott has the support he needs, resolving contractual issues with key players like Lamb, and enhancing the team’s depth will be paramount. Smith’s insights offer a roadmap for potential changes, but whether the organization will heed his advice remains to be seen.
For now, Cowboys fans remain in a state of hopeful anticipation, looking to see if this storied franchise can finally break its championship drought and return to its former glory.