Emmitt Smith's Legacy and Critique of the Dallas Cowboys' Current Management
Emmitt Smith, an iconic figure in Dallas Cowboys history, continues to voice his opinions on the team's recent management decisions and on-field performance. At 55 years old and nearly two decades into his retirement, the Hall of Famer has not shied away from critiquing the organization that once celebrated his achievements.
Smith's recent comments primarily target the handling of star players Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. Highlighting Prescott's crucial role as the franchise quarterback, Smith expressed concerns about the support system surrounding him, especially with the ongoing contractual issues with 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 remarked.
Smith's frustration is palpable as he elaborates on the broader implications of this pressure. "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 added. These strong words not only highlight the importance of Lamb's presence but also emphasize Prescott's need for a reliable supporting cast to succeed.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Prescott is playing under the final year of his contract, and CeeDee Lamb's holdout due to contractual issues only adds to the uncertainty. Brandin Cooks has stepped in as the Cowboys' No. 2 wideout, but the team's overall offensive strategy seems under strain.
Smith's criticism extends beyond the current roster management. Reflecting on the Cowboys' performance over the past two decades, he noted, "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." His remarks underscore a long-standing frustration with the team's inability to capture the elusive Super Bowl title, a feat they have not achieved in over two decades.
The Cowboys' roster decisions have also come under scrutiny, particularly with the departure of Tony Pollard via free agency and the heavy reliance on running back Ezekiel Elliott. These moves have raised questions about the overall strategy and planning of the team's management.
Smith calls for a comprehensive assessment of the organization's alignment and goals. "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. Smith's insights point to a perceived disconnect within the organization, urging for swift resolution to bring about the desired success.
On the surface, it might seem that all elements within the franchise are aligned for success. However, Smith believes there is a deeper issue that needs addressing. "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 concluded.
Emmitt Smith's observations and critiques are a reflection of a deep-seated passion for the Dallas Cowboys and a desire to see the team return to its former glory. His candid remarks serve as a call to action for the organization to reevaluate and align its strategies effectively to meet the high expectations set by its storied history.