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Jerry Jones is not known for his personal football playing career, but rather for his significant impact on the sport as the owner, president, and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic franchises in the National Football League (NFL). Born on October 13, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, Jones grew up in North Little Rock, Arkansas,
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Jerry Jones is not known for his personal football playing career, but rather for his significant impact on the sport as the owner, president, and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic franchises in the National Football League (NFL). Born on October 13, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, Jones grew up in North Little Rock, Arkansas, and attended the University of Arkansas, where he played college football as a guard.
Jones was a part of the 1964 Arkansas Razorbacks football team under coach Frank Broyles, which was recognized as the national champion after an undefeated season and a victory in the Cotton Bowl. Although his playing career did not extend beyond college, his experience and love for the game laid the foundation for his future endeavors in football management and ownership.
After college, Jones ventured into the business world, finding success in oil and gas exploration, which helped him amass the wealth necessary to purchase a sports franchise. His opportunity came in 1989 when he bought the Dallas Cowboys for approximately $140 million. At the time, the Cowboys were struggling both on the field and financially, but Jones was determined to turn the franchise around.
Jones immediately made his presence felt by replacing long-time coach Tom Landry with Jimmy Johnson, a move that was initially met with controversy but ultimately proved successful. Under Johnson, and later Barry Switzer, the Cowboys experienced a resurgence, winning three Super Bowl championships in four years during the 1990s (Super Bowls XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX).
As an owner, Jones has been known for his hands-on approach and has often been involved in the day-to-day operations of the team, including player personnel and coaching decisions. His tenure has seen the Cowboys become one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world, with a state-of-the-art stadium, known as AT&T Stadium, which opened in 2009.
Jones's influence extends beyond the Cowboys. He has been a significant figure in shaping the modern NFL, contributing to television contract negotiations, marketing, and the overall commercialization of the sport. His vision and business acumen have helped increase the league's popularity and revenue.
Despite his successes, Jones has also faced criticism, particularly regarding the team's performance since their last Super Bowl win in the 1995 season. The Cowboys have had mixed results, with periods of playoff contention but also stretches of mediocrity. Jones's dual role as general manager and owner has been a point of contention among fans and analysts who believe the team might benefit from a more traditional management structure.
Nevertheless, Jerry Jones's impact on the NFL and the Dallas Cowboys is undeniable. His entrepreneurial spirit, willingness to take risks, and passion for football have left an indelible mark on the sport. Under his ownership, the Cowboys have become a global brand, and his contributions to the league have helped shape the NFL into the entertainment juggernaut it is today.
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Chaos in Dallas seems to be something familiar and after a shocking wildcard loss this past wknd, Ryan, Fred and Channing are sitting down with former star wide receiver Dez Bryant opens up and telling all about what really went on inside the Dallas Cowboys organization.
Dez will go down as one of the top Dallas Cowboys receivers to wear the star, but the stories and attention that followed #88 for a decade is what the former WR is sharing about dealing with pressure, expressing the disadvantages to succeeding in big D and lack of family support growing up motivating him to make a change in his own adult life. In an emotional conversation, Dez reveals never-heard-before stories and the inner workings of his life and career.
Opening up about the dysfunctional relationship between him and former head coach Jason Garrett, the lack of locker room bond between teammates, the feeling of being set up to fail and his complicated bond with the Jones family, Dez talks about how playing for Dallas was a blessing and a curse in one.
Bryant says that he was never given a fair opportunity to learn or mature when he reached the NFL, and the media’s portrayals of him stemmed from preconceived ideas of who he was. Grateful for an unlikely mentor, Dez expressed gratitude for Entertainment mogul Jay Z for lifting him up and supporting him through the chaos.
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Young differentiates "football speed" from mere athletic speed, citing Jerry Rice and Puka Nakua as examples. He explains that some players excel in full gear, while others falter, highlighting the importance of adaptability and effectiveness in a football uniform.
The conversation shifts to Josh Allen's evolution. Young admires Allen's talent but wishes he had more support. He notes that rule changes have made the game more open, favoring players like Allen who possess a strong arm and mobility.
Discussing the Dallas Cowboys, Young criticizes their inability to utilize their talent effectively, a trend spanning two decades. He attributes this to the lack of an empowered head coach, suggesting that Jerry Jones, the team owner, hinders the coaches' authority. Young argues that the Cowboys' culture of entitlement and fame exacerbates their performance issues.
Regarding the best quarterback of all time, Young concedes that Tom Brady's seven Super Bowl wins make a compelling argument for his supremacy, despite acknowledging the subjectivity of such comparisons.
On the San Francisco 49ers, Young points out their vulnerability, particularly against teams with either a strong defense or a potent offense. He believes innovative minds in today's game, like those in Miami, Kansas City, and San Francisco, are essential for success.
Young also discusses potential Hall of Famers from his former teammates, suggesting Roger Craig and Brent Jones. He reflects on his playing days with a sense of nostalgia, expressing a desire to play in today's more open and quarterback-protective NFL.
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