Emmitt Smith, a revered figure in the annals of Dallas Cowboys history, has recently voiced criticisms that resound like a cautionary tale for the franchise's future prospects. At 55 years old and nearly two decades into his retirement, Smith's observations come from a place of deep understanding and vested interest in the Cowboys' legacy.
Smith's Concerns on Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb
One of Smith’s primary concerns centers around how the Cowboys' management is handling star players, particularly 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," Smith remarked about Lamb, who is currently holding out due to contractual issues. "Without him on the football field, they're putting all of the pressure on Dak Prescott now. And that is unacceptable."
Prescott, in the final year of his contract, finds himself in a precarious position. Smith elaborated on the potential pitfalls of the current strategy: "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."
The Wide Receiver Situation
With CeeDee Lamb on the sidelines, Brandin Cooks steps up as the Cowboys' No. 2 wideout. While Cooks is certainly talented, the void left by Lamb’s absence is palpable. The contractual standoff has left fans and analysts alike questioning the executive decisions at the top of the organization.
Running Back Woes
The Cowboys' backfield is another area of concern. The team has allowed Tony Pollard to walk away in free agency, a move not easily understood by many. This decision shifts a heavy burden onto Ezekiel Elliott. Known for his powerful running style, Elliott is now expected to carry much of the offensive load. However, relying heavily on one player can often lead to burnout and injury, leaving the Cowboys in yet another vulnerable position.
A Legacy of Disappointment
The disappointment is compounded when considering the team's prolonged Super Bowl drought. "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," Smith reflected, summarizing the frustration felt by countless Cowboys fans.
Smith emphasized the need for a thorough organizational reassessment. "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. The legendary running back hinted at an underlying disconnect within the franchise, suggesting it needs urgent resolution: "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."
Conclusion
Smith's words echo a larger sentiment growing among Cowboys supporters and football analysts. The organization stands at a crossroads, where the decisions made today will dictate the triumphs or tribulations of tomorrow. As the Cowboys gear up for another season, it’s clear that alignment, strategy, and player morale will be key elements to watch. Will the Cowboys rise to the occasion, or will they continue to falter under the weight of unmet expectations? Only time will tell, but Smith’s critiques offer a poignant reminder of the stakes involved.