The Dallas Cowboys’ struggles have long been a point of contention for fans, analysts, and former players alike. Now, two NFL legends have weighed in on what they believe to be the root of the team’s issues: Jerry Jones.
On a recent episode of the “Nightcap” podcast, Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe and former Pro Bowl wide receiver Chad Johnson, formerly Chad Ochocinco, took aim at the Cowboys’ owner in a candid conversation about the franchise’s inability to reclaim its glory days.
‘Nightcap’ Podcast Takes Shots at Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones
Sharpe didn’t hold back, calling out Jones’ approach to hiring head coaches and staff. “Jerry hires a head coach and then fills your staff out for you,” Sharpe said, implying that Jones exerts too much control over the team’s operations.
Johnson, echoing Sharpe’s sentiment, added, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. The fans are understanding who the issue is — nothing in Dallas is going to change until the fans take a stand.”
Idk…the Cowboys front office is giving real Mean Girl vibes. Jerry Jones is feeling real Regina George-ish 🤔 @ShannonSharpe @ochocinco @ShayShayMedia_ pic.twitter.com/zH712CfeHw
— Nightcap (@NightcapShow_) January 23, 2025
Sharpe then followed that up by saying: “You can’t shape the culture as long as this guy’s your owner.” For years, critics have argued that Jones’ heavy-handed involvement has hindered the Cowboys’ ability to establish a consistent identity and a winning formula.
A Frustrated Fanbase in Dallas
The remarks from Sharpe and Johnson resonated with a growing narrative surrounding the Cowboys’ organizational dysfunction. Despite having one of the more talented rosters in the league, the team continues to underperform when it matters most. Their 2024 season, which saw them miss playoffs, ended in a dismal 7-10 record and was a prime example of how the franchise’s issues extend beyond the field.
The Cowboys’ defense, once touted as a strength, struggled mightily last season. While Micah Parsons was his usual dominant self, the rest of the unit was plagued by lapses in coverage, missed assignments, and a lack of cohesion, finishing with a grade of 69.5, 25th in the NFL, in PFN’s Defense+ metric. Offensively, inconsistencies and questionable play-calling compounded the team’s problems, leading to yet another playoff absence.
Sharpe and Johnson’s comments echo Cowboys fans’ frustrations, who are growing increasingly disillusioned with Jones’ leadership. From questionable coaching hires to his refusal to relinquish control, Jones’ fingerprints are all over the Cowboys’ continued mediocrity.
The sentiment also aligns with recent remarks from Micah Parsons’ brother, Terrence Parsons Jr., who took to social media to criticize the organization.
Change Unlikely Without Fan Action
Johnson’s suggestion that fans “take a stand” may sound drastic, but it reflects the level of frustration surrounding the franchise. The Cowboys haven’t reached the NFC Championship Game since 1995, a drought that stands in stark contrast to Jones’ insistence on maintaining control.
With head coach Mike McCarthy’s time in Dallas officially over, speculation is mounting about who will lead the team next. Among the names being floated, none carry as much intrigue as Deion Sanders.
Although a Hall of Famer and former Cowboys icon, the prospect of “Coach Prime” returning to Dallas has divided the fanbase. While some see him as the bold, culture-shifting figure the Cowboys need, others are skeptical about whether even Sanders could succeed under Jones’ micromanaging style.
For now, it seems Dallas remains stuck in a cycle of mediocrity. As Sharpe and Johnson noted, meaningful change may not come until their current owner steps back and allows a new vision to take hold.