Long-awaited nod: Jerry Jones finally honors Jimmy Johnson with Cowboys’ Ring of Honor induction – Marca English
In a surprising announcement during Fox’s NFL pregame show, Cowboys team owner and general manager Jerry Jones revealed that after three decades, former head coach Jimmy Johnson would finally be inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor.
This long-awaited recognition was met with both anticipation and appreciation from fans and NFL enthusiasts alike.
Jones took a moment to praise Johnson’s exceptional work ethic, inspirational leadership, and profound football knowledge.
During the announcement, Johnson, known for his sense of humor, teased Jones on a slight misspeak regarding the date of induction, quipping, “I hope it’s 2023.”
Jones confirmed the date, emphasizing the significance of December 30th, 2023, for Johnson’s induction into the prestigious Ring of Honor.
Johnson, the architect of the Cowboys’ success in the 90’s
The relationship between Jones and Johnson has been a tale of highs and lows, with Johnson’s firing after securing the Cowboys’ second Super Bowl ring becoming a memorable chapter in NFL history in the 1990’s.
However, recent developments indicate a mending of fences. “We’re talking, and we’re friendly now,” Johnson acknowledged.
Jones echoed this sentiment, referencing advice from Bill Walsh about being “careless with their relationship.”
Johnson’s impact on the Cowboys goes beyond the Lombardi trophies, marking a remarkable turnaround from a 1-15 record in his first season to consecutive Super Bowl victories.
Notably, quarterback Troy Aikman, receiver Michael Irvin, and running back Emmitt Smith, key figures in those championship teams, were previously enshrined in the Ring of Honor in 2005.
The induction makes Jimmy Johnson the 24th member of the Cowboys’ Ring of Honor and the second coach after Tom Landry.
Landry, who coached from 1960 to 1988, was enshrined in 1993, emphasizing the historical significance of Johnson’s inclusion.
Despite the drama surrounding Johnson’s departure, he and Jones share a deep-rooted history, having been teammates on a national championship team at Arkansas.
Jones immediately brought Johnson to the Cowboys when he acquired the team in 1989, kickstarting a period of unprecedented success.
Reflecting on their relationship, Johnson expressed gratitude towards Jones, emphasizing their daily communication during their shared Cowboys journey.
“We never really had a disagreement,” Johnson revealed, adding that their recent talks reaffirm the enduring bond they share.
As Johnson rightly pointed out, the timing for this induction felt right.
Jones, at 81, and Johnson, at 80, both recognize the significance of this moment.
The ceremony not only honors a coaching legend but symbolizes the restoration of a cherished connection that has left an indelible mark on the Cowboys’ legacy.
