Emmitt Smith, the legendary Dallas Cowboys running back, has continued to make his voice heard even two decades after hanging up his cleats. At 55 years old, Smith remains a keen observer and critic of his beloved Cowboys, particularly when it comes to the management's recent decisions regarding key players like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb.
Smith's Concerns on Dak Prescott's Situation
Emmitt Smith has not shied away from expressing his dissatisfaction with how the Cowboys are managing Dak Prescott's current contract situation. Prescott, who is now playing under the final year of his contract, is, according to Smith, being set up for failure. "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," Smith passionately stated.
Smith argues that the absence of key players like CeeDee Lamb is putting immense pressure on Prescott. "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, emphasizing the importance of team dynamics in ensuring Prescott's success.
CeeDee Lamb's Holdout: A Point of Contention
At the heart of Smith's criticisms is the ongoing contractual holdout by CeeDee Lamb, the Cowboys' star wide receiver. Lamb’s absence has left a significant void in the team's offense, and Smith believes this could have been avoided with better management. The tension highlights a broader issue within the Cowboys' organization that 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," Smith remarked, pointing to the extended period since the Cowboys last won a Super Bowl.
Ezekiel Elliott's Increased Responsibility
With Tony Pollard now departed via free agency, Ezekiel Elliott has been burdened with a heavier workload. The Cowboys are relying significantly on Elliott to carry the running game, a strategy that Smith views with skepticism given the team's current dynamics and Elliott's own recent struggles with injuries and performance consistency.
The departure of key players and the failure to secure contractual agreements with others have led Smith to call for a comprehensive evaluation 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?" Smith queried, highlighting the need for introspection and better alignment within the Cowboys' leadership.
A Legacy of Frustration
Smith's critiques are not new; they are steeped in years of watching the team fall short of their potential. As a player who was accustomed to winning and success, the prolonged drought without a Super Bowl victory has been particularly hard for Smith to bear. "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," he lamented.
The frustration voiced by Smith resonates with many Cowboys fans who have seen the team make numerous early playoff exits despite high expectations. His perspective serves as a reminder of the high standards and storied history of the franchise, urging current management and players to strive toward reclaiming past glories.
Looking Forward
As the Cowboys navigate another challenging season, the calls from legends like Emmitt Smith highlight the urgent need for change and better decision-making. Smith’s observations shed light on the critical issues facing the team, from player management to organizational alignment, and underscore the importance of putting players in positions where they can succeed.
Only time will tell if the Cowboys can address these concerns and return to their winning ways. For now, the candid reflections of a Cowboys icon like Emmitt Smith serve as an important reminder of the team's potential and the standards they must meet to live up to their historic legacy.