Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has ignited speculation about the team’s future leadership, giving a powerful endorsement to former tight end Jason Witten as a potential NFL head coach. Speaking on a Dallas radio station, Jones expressed zero doubt that the future Hall of Famer has the unique qualities necessary to lead a team at the highest level, drawing a direct comparison to a current NFL coaching star.
Jones’s Unwavering Endorsement of Witten
When asked directly if Jason Witten could coach in the NFL, Jerry Jones’s response was immediate and clear. “Yes,” he stated on 105.3 The Fan. “Without hesitation. Yes. He has something that you can’t draw up.”
Jones didn’t just offer a simple confirmation; he compared Witten to one of the league’s most respected current leaders, Dan Campbell. “He reminds me a lot of our other tight end who is head coach up there in Detroit right now,” Jones added. This is high praise, considering Campbell has successfully transformed the Detroit Lions from a struggling franchise into a legitimate contender.
The comparison highlights Jones’s belief that Witten possesses the same rare blend of leadership, grit, and football intelligence that has made Campbell a success story.
What Makes Witten a Prime Coaching Candidate?
According to Jerry Jones, Witten’s potential as a head coach goes far beyond just understanding plays. He emphasized a set of intangible skills that are crucial for leading a professional locker room. Jones believes Witten’s unique strengths make him a standout candidate for a future head coaching role in the NFL.
Jones pointed to several key attributes:
- Deep Football Knowledge: Having played 17 seasons, Witten has an elite understanding of offensive and defensive schemes, in-game adjustments, and overall strategy.
- Physical and Mental Toughness: Jones highlighted Witten’s grasp of the physical demands of the game, a trait essential for earning players’ respect and managing a team through a grueling season.
- Unmatched Work Ethic: Witten was famous for his relentless preparation and dedication as a player, a quality he now applies to his coaching career at the high school level.
These are the types of qualities that cannot be taught in a classroom but are forged through years of elite competition. Witten’s transition from a player to a high school coach demonstrates his passion for mentoring and developing talent, which is a foundational aspect of coaching at any level.
Could Witten Replace McCarthy in Dallas?
Jones’s comments come at a time when the Cowboys’ current head coach, Mike McCarthy, is facing intense pressure. With Dallas once again falling short in the playoffs, many analysts and fans believe a coaching change could be on the horizon if the team doesn’t make a deep postseason run.
The idea of Jason Witten, a franchise legend, taking the reins is a compelling narrative. Witten spent 16 seasons with the Cowboys and has a deep, long-standing relationship with Jerry Jones and the entire organization. His familiarity with the “Cowboys way” and his iconic status in Dallas would make him a popular choice among the fanbase.
While Witten has not publicly stated any desire to coach in the NFL, Jones’s public endorsement effectively places his name in the mix for future openings, whether in Dallas or elsewhere.
The Rise of the Tight End Coach
The path from NFL tight end to head coach is becoming increasingly common. These players are often required to understand the entire offense, from pass protection and line calls to route concepts and defensive coverages. This comprehensive knowledge makes them uniquely suited for leadership roles.
Dan Campbell is the most prominent example, but others like former head coach Frank Reich and Tennessee Titans coach Mike Vrabel (who worked extensively with tight ends) show the trend is real. Tight ends act as a hybrid player, bridging the gap between the offensive line and the receivers, which gives them a holistic view of the game. Witten’s career certainly fits this mold, making his potential transition to an NFL sideline seem like a natural progression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jason Witten?
Jason Witten is a former NFL tight end who played 17 seasons, primarily for the Dallas Cowboys. He is a future Hall of Famer and is widely regarded as one of the greatest tight ends in the history of the sport.
What did Jerry Jones say about Jason Witten?
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said he believes “without hesitation” that Jason Witten has what it takes to be a successful NFL head coach. He compared Witten’s potential to that of Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell.
Is Jason Witten currently coaching?
Yes, Jason Witten is the head football coach at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas. He has been leading the high school program since retiring from the NFL.
Why are tight ends becoming successful coaches?
Tight ends often possess a deep understanding of multiple facets of the game, including offensive line blocking schemes and wide receiver route concepts. This versatile knowledge base provides a strong foundation for a coaching career.
