In the wake of the Dallas Cowboys’ disappointing 27-21 loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, which marked their third consecutive defeat and dropped their record to 3-5, team owner and general manager Jerry Jones addressed the players, coaches, and staff in an emotional locker room speech. Despite the discouraging start to the 2024 season, Jones made it clear that he has not given up on the team’s prospects and intends to explore roster upgrades before the upcoming trade deadline.
Jones Delivers Heartfelt Message to Team
While Jones declined to share the specifics of his locker room address, citing the emotional nature of the message, he did emphasize that he has experienced adversity before and witnessed teams bounce back to achieve great success. “I spoke to the team about having my butt kicked a few times and been around men who’ve had their butt kicked, and I’ve seen them come back and hold the trophy up,” Jones revealed. “Now there’s times for all things. We all know we’ve got to play better than we’ve played tonight or we’re not going anywhere.”
Cowboys to Explore Roster Upgrades
With the NFL trade deadline fast approaching on Tuesday, Jones confirmed that the Cowboys have “some things in the mill” when it comes to potential roster moves. While he cautioned against expecting a blockbuster deal akin to the Amari Cooper trade in 2018, which helped propel the team to a division title and playoff berth, Jones made it clear that the Cowboys are willing to explore all avenues to improve the roster.
“The point is, we got a shot, we think, to improve our roster,” Jones stated. “We’re going to do everything we can, at all times, to improve this team and in our judgment, if what you have to give up helps improve it, we’ll do it.”
Areas of Need for the Cowboys
The Cowboys have several positions that could benefit from an upgrade, including wide receiver, defensive line, and offensive line. Jones noted that the impending returns of key players like edge rusher Micah Parsons (ankle), cornerback DaRon Bland (foot), and wide receiver Brandin Cooks (knee) are “close,” which could provide a boost to the team’s performance.
Support for Head Coach Mike McCarthy
Despite the team’s struggles, Jones expressed his support for head coach Mike McCarthy, drawing comparisons to the early challenges faced by legendary coach Jimmy Johnson during his tenure with the Cowboys. “I’m good with Mike,” Jones affirmed. “I know how hard he works. I like his football mind. I know how good he works. He’s got, in my mind, an outstanding coaching record.”
Elliott’s Absence Due to Disciplinary Issues
The Cowboys were without star running back Ezekiel Elliott for Sunday’s game against the Falcons, as he was inactive due to disciplinary issues and did not travel with the team to Atlanta. Sources revealed that Elliott has missed meetings, and there have been brewing issues between the player and the organization. While Jones praised Elliott as a teammate, he acknowledged the need for “attendant consequences” in such situations.
Looking Ahead with Optimism
As the Cowboys navigate this challenging stretch of the season, Jones remains committed to the team’s success and is willing to make the necessary moves to turn things around. “Well, I am. I am,” Jones responded when asked if he was still all-in for the 2024 season. “And you say, ‘Boy, things are looking pretty bleak right here,’ but candidly, I’ve seen situations that look bleak turn around.”
The Dallas Cowboys have their work cut out for them as they aim to salvage their season and make a push for the playoffs. With Jerry Jones at the helm, the team will undoubtedly explore every opportunity to improve the roster and put themselves in a position to compete at the highest level. As the trade deadline looms, Cowboys fans will eagerly await any moves the team makes in their pursuit of a championship.
