As the NFL season progresses and teams vie for positions in the playoffs, one name remains prominent in discussions about the Dallas Cowboys' history—Jason Garrett. A familiar face in the Cowboys’ organization, Garrett's journey through the NFL is a testament to his resilience and leadership.
From Quarterback to Coach
Jason Garrett’s association with the Dallas Cowboys began in 1993 when he joined the team as a quarterback. Spanning six years with the Cowboys, Garrett's tenure as a quarterback was marked by notable moments of excellence. He secured victories in six out of his nine starts, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
Transitioning from player to coach, Garrett took on the role of offensive coordinator for the Cowboys from 2007 to 2010. His understanding of the game and leadership skills quickly became evident, paving the way for greater responsibilities. In 2010, he stepped up as the interim head coach, eventually being named the full-time head coach from 2011 to 2019.
Years of Leadership
Under Garrett’s stewardship, the Cowboys achieved an 85-67 record, with three playoff appearances to their credit. His approach to coaching and team management earned him recognition, culminating in being named the NFL Coach of the Year in 2016. Garrett's tenure with the team was a blend of challenges and achievements, where his skills in communication and leadership came to the fore.
Reflecting on his time with the Cowboys, Garrett once remarked, “The kind of coach who thrives there is someone who is a really good coach...” His insights into the nuances of leading a team were further elaborated, “When I say communicating and leading, it's not only to your staff and to your team, it's also leading upward in the organization...”
Insights from Jerry Jones
During his time in Dallas, Garrett gained valuable insights from the Cowboys’ owner, Jerry Jones. He acknowledged, "I learned a tremendous amount from Jerry Jones during my time there as a player, as an assistant coach, and as a head coach..." This experience with Jones added depth to Garrett's understanding of team dynamics and organizational leadership.
Speaking about Jones, Garrett noted, "Jerry is 82 years old, and he's done things a certain way for a long, long time..." This reflection underscores the impact of long-standing practices within the Cowboys’ organization, which Garrett had to navigate throughout his tenure.
Comparisons with Other Franchises
Now serving as an analyst for NBC Sports, Garrett often provides insights into the workings of the NFL, drawing comparisons with other successful franchises. He referenced teams like Kansas City, Buffalo, and Baltimore, stating, “Look at the obvious examples: Kansas City, Buffalo, Baltimore, some of the other ones...” These teams exemplify the successful blend of leadership, strategy, and execution that Garrett values.
The Ongoing Quest for Success
As the Cowboys strive for playoff success, they face a lingering statistic. The team has made 13 consecutive playoff appearances without reaching the NFC title game since 1995. This ongoing quest for glory keeps fans and analysts alike engrossed in discussions about the team’s strategies and future direction.
As Garrett continues to observe and analyze the NFL landscape, his insights, shaped by years of experience on the field and the sidelines, remain valuable. His journey through various roles within the Cowboys organization and now in sports media showcases a career built on adaptability, leadership, and an enduring passion for the game.