You know how the Dallas Cowboys are always in the spotlight? Like, they are one of those teams that everyone knows–even if they don’t follow football. Well, of course! They have got this huge fan base, and a rich history, and who doesn’t know Jerry Jones, who’s basically a celebrity on his own, right? But here’s the thing: for all their hype, they haven’t really lived up to the expectations lately. And it’s not just fans who are frustrated– players are starting to call them out too. Well, let’s say just former players for now.
America’s Team’s players may not defy its glamor by speaking ill of it. But the players who get away have a tendency to criticize the organization. This time, it’s someone who used to be with them during training camp and he didn’t hesitate before putting them on blast for how they make decisions. It’s no secret that Jones is super hands-on with everything. Some people love that about him. But others think it is more about control and him making headlines than actually building a winning team. And honestly, with how the Cowboys have been performing in recent years, it’s hard to argue with that. Charvarius “Mooney” Ward certainly didn’t hold back while talking about it on For The Show hosted by Matt Priest.
Yeah, it’s the same Mooney Ward, who’s now a $54 million cornerback for the Indianapolis Colts. He went from being undrafted to one of the best defenders in the league. But when he looks back on his time with Dallas, it clearly stings. He said, “I was strappin’ all them boys. I thought I was making the team, but Dallas doesn’t make a lot of good decisions.” He clearly believed he was performing at a high level during training camp, probably outplaying others and proving his worth. But then, boom–the Cowboys traded him to the Kansas City Chiefs after just five months. It’s not hard to see why he would feel let down or question their decision-making.
Ward (@itslilmooney) on Dallas (#Cowboys):
“I was strappin’ all them boys. I thought I was making the team, but Dallas doesn’t make a lot of good decisions.” pic.twitter.com/oVAvl7dJkz
— Lawrence Owen (@Colts_Law) March 18, 2025
During his brief time in Dallas, Ward showcased his skills by covering wide receivers effectively in practice. However, despite his contributions, the Cowboys opted to trade him, citing the need for offensive depth. And look at his career now, he’s a solid cornerback. He’s won a Super Bowl with the Chiefs and put up career-high numbers while making a Super Bowl appearance with the 49ers, before moving to the Colts.
It’s kind of wild when you think about it–how many other players might have slipped through the cracks. A recent name that appeared in a similar light was veteran defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, who recently signed a three-year deal worth $42 million with the Seattle Seahawks. While reflecting on his time with the Cowboys, he too didn’t hold back. In fact, he openly questioned their ability to win a Super Bowl, stating that he was certain about not winning one there. These criticisms by former players aren’t just about personal disappointment, they also highlight broader concerns about Jones’ decision-making in Dallas.
Whether it’s trading away promising talent like Ward or struggling to build a consistent playoff contender, these missteps have fueled questions about whether the Cowboys are stuck in a cycle of mediocrity. But now, under the leadership of a new head coach, could things finally be changing?
Is a new era starting for the Cowboys?
Things aren’t as dull as many pictured it. Under the new regime of Brian Schottenheimer, the team appears to be preparing for a competitive season. Not only did they invest in retaining some big names, but they also acquired good weapons in the free agency. They signed Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders to strengthen their backfield after Rico Dowdle compromised its production.
Additionally, word on the street is Schottenheimer’s also browsing names in the Class of 2025 for a quarterback. Hearing that, Skip Bayless’ patriotism for the Cowboys has also returned with valuable advice: “Shedeur Sanders falling to him at 12, Cowboys take Shedeur.” The Cowboys fanatic strongly believes that to compete in the NFC East against teams like the Washington Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles (Super Bowl LIX champions), they need Shedeur Sanders.
November 3, 2024, Atlanta, Georgia, USA: Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott 4 calls a play during the first half against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Atlanta USA – ZUMAw109 20241103_fap_w109_018 Copyright: xDebbyxWongx
Interestingly, Bayless’ advice didn’t end there. He also suggested they trade away Dak Prescott—who has started nine seasons for Dallas, yet has not even come close to ending the three-decade-long drought. Their best chance of survival is using the 12th overall draft pick wisely.
But the question is: would they be able to pull off Sanders? Given that he is ranked among the top two quarterbacks of his class and multiple teams ahead of them are starving for a good one. Perhaps that’s a question for another day.
The post $54 Million Colts Superstar Destroys Jerry Jones Over Cowboys’ Decision Making appeared first on EssentiallySports.