Former Dallas Cowboys players are voicing their frustration with owner Jerry Jones regarding a perplexing business decision that prioritizes profit over the team’s success. This latest move has left players feeling distracted and concerned about their Super Bowl hopes.
Jerry Jones, a figure known for stirring controversy, has recently faced criticism for several strange statements and actions. From claiming he couldn’t afford star running back Derrick Henry to insisting that no one can fill the GM role like him, his leadership has raised eyebrows among fans and former players alike.
In a recent article by ESPN’s Kalyn Kahler, it was revealed that fans can purchase a “day in the life of a Cowboys player” experience for $40 at AT&T Stadium. For $70, they get the “Ultimate Fan Experience,” which includes a letter of fandom signed by Jones, a tote bag, and even a Q&A session with an AI Jerry hologram. This decision has angered former players who believe it creates unnecessary distractions during crucial team meetings.
Dalton Schultz, a former Cowboy now with the Houston Texans, described the team’s culture as feeling like “a zoo.” He expressed concern over how such fan experiences affect the players’ focus and preparation.
The Cowboys failures on the field are the result of failures by the front office.
But there’s no GM to fire bc Jerry Jones is never going to fire himself (or his son).
Fail. Sell false hope. Profit. Fail again. For 29 years.
Because ego means more to Jerry than winning games. pic.twitter.com/ajeq4EQl2L
— Jonah Javad (@JonahJavad) October 17, 2024
One anonymous former player voiced their frustration, stating, “We have 24/7 access to the facility, and it should be a place of solitude. I come in for extra work at night, and there’s fans walking through, poking out at you.”
Former Cowboys running back Tony Pollard, now with the Tennessee Titans, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “This is more about football, just X’s and O’s. I’m in a better place mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually, just all around.”
Jayron Kearse, a free agent cornerback, highlighted the disruption caused by tours, saying, “You’re on your way to eat lunch and you’re running into tours. We’re here for football; it’s our job to focus.”
Cowboys K Brandon Aubrey missed practice on Wednesday for a potentially unprecedented reason. He has jury duty. https://t.co/DVq9Thlhoc pic.twitter.com/SfYPXEDgLG
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) October 23, 2024
Another anonymous player lamented the constant interruptions: “We want to have our own space where we can talk, but it’s either media or fans all day. It’d be one thing if they did the tours like one day a week, but it’s every day.”
Jones’s focus on profit over performance raises questions about his commitment to winning another Super Bowl. His history of making questionable decisions, such as forcing Jimmy Johnson out after a Super Bowl victory and retaining mediocre coaches like Jason Garrett, suggests a pattern of prioritizing his brand over the team’s success.
As the Cowboys continue to struggle, former players worry that these distractions could prevent the team from achieving its championship dreams.
