In the annals of the NFL, few players stand as tall—both literally and metaphorically—as Ed "Too Tall" Jones. A key member of the Dallas Cowboys team that triumphed in Super Bowl XII, Jones's illustrious career has left an indelible mark on football. Over his commendable 15-year tenure, Jones racked up an impressive 106 sacks, earning his place as a former All-Pro defensive end.
But the legacy of Ed "Too Tall" Jones extends beyond his on-field exploits. As a doting observer and analyst of the game, he holds firm beliefs about what it takes to achieve postseason success. According to Jones, the secret lies in seasoned players who know how to elevate their game when it matters most.
Veteran Leadership: The Missing Ingredient
Discussing the current state of NFL teams vying for playoff glory, Jones remarked, “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's insights cut to the heart of what separates good teams from great ones. “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.”
The Role of Internal Leadership
For Jones, it’s not just about the external strategies and talents that teams compile; internal leadership plays a pivotal role. He argues that a team’s performance is often heightened by the presence of players who have "been there, done that" with regards to Super Bowl success.
“That is definitely one of the things. 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 reflects on the bygone Cowboys era, noting, “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.”
Lessons from the Past
Jones draws from his own experience to bolster his viewpoint. Reflecting on his battles against veteran teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jones says, “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.”
Adapting Off the Field
Jones's opinions on leadership and experience extend beyond the football field into his personal life. Lately, the former NFL star has partnered with Sportcane, a modern walking aid designed to enhance mobility.
Praising the impact of Sportcane on his life, Jones shared, “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 Jones's ethos: the importance of tools and resources in achieving one's best, whether it be on the field, in the locker room, or navigating the challenges of daily life.
Conclusion
Ed "Too Tall" Jones’s football journey—from his All-Pro career with the Dallas Cowboys to his thoughtful commentary on the modern game—illustrates a broader understanding of excellence. His insights on the value of veteran presence and internal leadership provide a valuable lens through which to view team dynamics and success. Whether it's through his reflections on past battles, his endorsement of products that improve quality of life, or his enduring passion for the game, Jones continues to inspire a new generation both on and off the field.