Emmitt Smith, a revered figure in the history of the Dallas Cowboys, has once again voiced his concerns about the current state of the team. As a legendary former player who has seen the Cowboys through some of their most triumphant moments, Smith's opinions carry significant weight, and his recent comments about the management and future prospects of the team are no exception.
Criticism of Cowboys' Management
Smith, who is now 55 years old and nearly two decades into his retirement, did not hold back when discussing the Cowboys' front office. His primary criticism is directed at the handling of quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. "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. His frustration suggests that the team is not providing Prescott with the support he needs to succeed.
The discontent doesn't stop at Prescott. Smith's comments also reflect his views on the treatment of CeeDee Lamb, who is currently holding out due to contractual issues. Smith believes that Prescott, as the franchise quarterback, should be in a position to thrive, but feels the management has placed him "behind the eight ball." "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," he emphasized.
Falling Short of Expectations
The Cowboys have not won a Super Bowl in over two decades, a fact that is not lost on Smith. Reflecting on the years of unmet expectations, he remarked, "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." This ongoing cycle of hope followed by disappointment is a source of palpable frustration for the Cowboys' legend.
Current Roster Challenges
Adding to the team's challenges is the departure of Tony Pollard via free agency. The Cowboys are now leaning heavily on running back Ezekiel Elliott, a situation that underscores the team's precarious position. Meanwhile, Brandin Cooks has stepped up as the Cowboys' No. 2 wideout, but the cohesion and strength of the roster remain topics of concern.
Call for Organizational Alignment
Smith's critique extends beyond player management; he calls for a holistic reassessment of the organization. "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, pointing to deeper, systemic issues within the franchise. The disconnect between the organization's goals and its on-field execution is something Smith believes needs urgent attention. "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," he added.
As the Cowboys navigate the final year of Prescott's current contract, the pressure is on the team's management to address these concerns and align their actions with their mission. Emmitt Smith's voice echoes the sentiments of many fans and former players who have longed for a return to glory. For a team with such a storied past, the next steps will be crucial in determining whether the Cowboys can break free from their prolonged championship drought.