Jerry Jones, the owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys, and Jason Garrett, the team’s former head coach, shared a complex relationship during their time together in the NFL. Jones, a highly influential figure in professional football, purchased the Cowboys in 1989 and has since maintained significant control over the team’s operations. His leadership style is hands-on, making him one of the most involved owners in the league. Known for his larger-than-life personality, Jones is often at the forefront of the Cowboys’ decisions, whether related to player acquisitions, coaching hires, or team strategy.
Jason Garrett, a former Cowboys quarterback, first joined the coaching staff in 2007 as the offensive coordinator before being promoted to head coach in 2010. He led the team for nearly a decade, through 2019, but his tenure was marked by both moments of success and ongoing struggles. While Garrett helped the Cowboys to multiple playoff appearances, he was never able to get the team past the divisional round of the playoffs, which became a sticking point for fans and analysts alike. Despite this, Jones remained loyal to Garrett for much of his time in charge, often defending him from criticism.
The relationship between Jones and Garrett was notable for its longevity, as head coaches in the NFL typically face shorter tenures due to the league’s high-pressure environment. Jones often emphasized that Garrett was like family to him, highlighting the close personal bond they shared. This closeness may have contributed to Garrett’s extended time with the Cowboys, as many observers felt that Jones’ loyalty and patience with Garrett exceeded what most other coaches would receive in similar situations.
However, Garrett’s time as head coach was also filled with frustration. Though the Cowboys boasted talented rosters during his tenure, including stars like Tony Romo, Ezekiel Elliott, and Dak Prescott, the team could never fully capitalize on their potential. This failure to achieve greater playoff success eventually led to growing criticism, with many pointing fingers at Garrett’s conservative coaching style. Fans and commentators alike argued that the team needed a fresh approach to maximize their talent.
In 2019, following a season where the Cowboys missed the playoffs despite high expectations, Jones made the difficult decision to move on from Garrett. It marked the end of a long era, but the parting was not entirely bitter. Jones spoke highly of Garrett even in his departure, recognizing his contributions to the organization over the years. In turn, Garrett expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the team, reinforcing that their relationship remained respectful despite the end of their professional partnership.