Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith ‘Sick’ of Dallas Cowboys’ Title Drought: “If I Were a Co-Owner, It Would Make Fans”
Dallas, TX – Legendary Dallas Cowboys running back and Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith has never been one to mince words. But now, as the Cowboys’ Super Bowl drought stretches into its 30th year, Smith’s frustration has reached a boiling point. Speaking candidly during recent interviews, the NFL’s all-time leading rusher called out his former team’s lack of success and even hinted at what he would do differently if he had a stake in ownership.
“Embarrassing and Unacceptable”
Smith, who was instrumental in the Cowboys’ dominance during the 1990s, described the current state of the franchise as “borderline embarrassing.” Despite three consecutive 12-win seasons under head coach Mike McCarthy, the Cowboys have failed to make significant postseason progress. Their crushing playoff loss to Green Bay last season only added salt to the wound.
“I’ve never been at the place that I am at right now,” Smith said. “Nobody wants to fight anymore. They’re living off past glory instead of building their own legacy. It’s not what this team used to stand for”13.
A Call for Leadership and Commitment
Smith didn’t stop there. He questioned whether the Cowboys’ leadership under owner Jerry Jones is truly focused on winning championships or merely on maintaining the team’s marketability. “At the end of the day, I don’t understand the mission,” Smith said. “Is it about winning Super Bowls or just getting ratings? The urgency we had when Jerry first bought the team is gone”35.
Smith also lamented what he sees as a lack of commitment from players. “They’re more interested in Instagram likes and podcasts than fighting for wins on the field,” he said. This sharp critique underscores his belief that today’s Cowboys have drifted far from the disciplined and hungry teams that once dominated the NFL15.
“If I Were a Co-Owner…”
In a surprising twist, Smith hinted at his desire to take on a more active role in shaping the team’s future. “If I were a co-owner, it would make fans happy because I’d bring back that sense of urgency and pride we had in the ’90s,” he said. While Smith stopped short of announcing any formal plans, his comments have sparked speculation about whether he might pursue involvement in team ownership.
A Legacy Worth Fighting For
For fans, Smith’s words are both a rallying cry and a stark reminder of how far the franchise has fallen since its glory days. The Cowboys still boast one of the most passionate fan bases in sports, but patience is wearing thin.
As Smith put it, “This team needs to stop living off its brand and start earning respect on the field again.” Whether his vision for change will resonate with Jerry Jones or inspire action remains to be seen.
One thing is clear: Emmitt Smith isn’t just voicing his frustration—he’s challenging an entire organization to rise above mediocrity and reclaim its place among football’s elite.
