Emmitt Smith’s Take on Cowboys’ Current Predicament
In the storied history of the Dallas Cowboys, few names resonate as powerfully as Emmitt Smith. A Hall of Fame running back and iconic figure in the franchise’s legacy, Smith's perspectives carry significant weight. Recently, Smith did not hold back regarding his views on the Cowboys' management, particularly concerning the handling of key players like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb.
Smith, who is now 55 and has been retired for nearly 20 years, voiced his concerns over the Cowboys’ current outlook and decisions. His main point of contention revolves around the handling of quarterback Dak Prescott, who is in the final year of his contract, and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, who is currently holding out due to contractual issues.
"He is a very, very valuable asset to the Dallas Cowboys. He is a very, very valuable asset to Dak Prescott. Without him on the football field, they're putting all of the pressure on Dak Prescott now. And that is unacceptable," Smith said, referring to Lamb. He further emphasized the pivotal role that Lamb plays in the team’s offensive strategy and how his absence burdens Prescott.
Smith's critique extends to the overall strategy and decision-making process within the Cowboys' management. Prescott, who is playing under the final year of his contract, needs more support, according to Smith. "He should be in a position, as your franchise quarterback, he should be in a position to be successful. And right now, you putting him behind the eight ball. And that is not right," Smith stated.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the departure of Tony Pollard via free agency, forcing the Cowboys to rely heavily on running back Ezekiel Elliott once again. While Elliott is a formidable player, the imbalance caused by Pollard's absence is evident, further contributing to Smith’s criticisms.
The Cowboys’ management decisions are not only affecting immediate gameplay but seem to be part of a longer trend that has Smith worried about systemic issues within the organization. "Over the last 20-some odd years, watching our team get to the playoffs time and time again, being told that we're going to do better. This is going to be a Super Bowl year for us. And we just get completely let down," Smith lamented.
Smith’s reflections underscore a broader concern about the alignment between the Cowboys' mission and their operational tactics. "We have to try, as an organization, we have to go and do a complete assessment in terms of the organization itself. What is our mission? And how does our mission align with the football team?" he questioned. It’s a call for introspection, suggesting that the Cowboys need to reassess their strategies to break the cycle of disappointment that has plagued the franchise for over two decades.
Despite the addition of Brandin Cooks as the Cowboys' No. 2 wideout, the ongoing contractual saga with CeeDee Lamb casts a shadow over the team’s preparation for the upcoming season. This dilemma has led critics, Smith included, to question whether the Cowboys can manage the off-field issues that directly impact their on-field performance.
Smith’s candidness about the team’s shortcomings provides an insider perspective on the cultural and operational dissonance within the Cowboys' organization. "On the surface, we would think everything is in alignment. But to me, I think there's a little disconnect there. And we need to resolve that fairly quickly because 20-some odd years, man, that's a long time," Smith concluded.
As the Cowboys gear up for another season, Smith's comments serve as a critical reminder of the importance of cohesive management and strategic clarity. For fans hoping to see their team recapture its former glory, the path forward might just start with heeding the advice of legends like Emmitt Smith.