Ed "Too Tall" Jones: Reflecting on a Legendary Career and the Blueprint for Postseason Success
Ed "Too Tall" Jones, a towering figure both literally and figuratively in the annals of NFL history, remains an influential voice in football long after his retirement. A key member of the Dallas Cowboys team that clinched victory in Super Bowl XII, Jones' achievements on the field have solidified his legacy. Over a stellar 15-year career, Jones racked up an impressive 106 sacks and earned All-Pro honors, showcasing his prowess as a defensive end. However, his influence extends beyond mere statistics; his insights into what it takes to achieve postseason success are invaluable.
Jones emphasizes the crucial role of seasoned players in achieving playoff 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," he asserts. For Jones, the difference between good teams and championship teams lies in having players who have been through the crucible of high-stakes games and emerged victorious.
The legendary defensive end believes that experienced players bring a unique edge to playoff-bound teams. "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 explains. This perspective underscores the intangible value that seasoned veterans add to a team's chemistry and morale.
Reflecting on his own experience, Jones touches upon the importance of internal leadership—an element he feels many contemporary teams lack. "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 notes. Indeed, Jones believes that having a leader who has navigated the rigors of a Super Bowl can galvanize a team when it matters most.
Jones points out that the current Dallas Cowboys lack such leadership, stating, "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 remarks illuminate a gap he perceives in today's NFL teams, including his former franchise.
Jones' reflections also take him back to the battles of yesteryear, particularly against teams like the legendary 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. I was proud of the way we hung in there against a veteran team because experience in big games is very important. Very important." His commentary underscores the enduring importance of experience and composure under pressure.
Aside from football, Jones has found a new partner in Sportcane, a newly designed walking aid that's touched a different aspect of his 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 acknowledges. From his days as a fierce competitor on the gridiron to navigating the challenges of daily life, the Sportcane has made a significant impact on his mobility and quality of life.
Jones' career and insights provide a blueprint for what it takes to achieve and sustain success in the NFL. His wisdom is a reminder that talent and strategy must be complemented by leadership, experience, and the right chemistry. As teams continue to chase the elusive Super Bowl glory, Jones’ perspective resonates as both a challenge and a guide to those aspiring to reach the pinnacle of professional football.