Dallas Cowboys: 30 greatest players in franchise history
123. . Defensive End. (1974-1978, 1980-1989). Ed 'Too Tall' Jones. 26. player
Possessing likely the greatest nickname in franchise history, Ed “Too Tall” Jones was the Dallas Cowboys’ first-ever number one overall selection in the 1974 NFL Draft out of Tennessee State University.
The 6-foot-9, 271-pound defensive end would help lead the Cowboys to a victory in Super Bowl XII. In 1979, at the age of 28, Jones opted to leave football in pursuit of a boxing career. A year later, he returned to Dallas and played 10 more years.
In fact, the second half of his career was his best, as Jones earned three-Pro Bowl and three All-Pro nominations in that span. “Too Tall” ended his Cowboys career as one of the most popular players in franchise history. Jones also played an incredible 232 consecutive games for Dallas.
Although the NFL did not start recording sacks statically until 1982, it is believed Jones racked up as many as 106.0 during his 15-year career. But officially, the longtime Cowboy has a total of 57.5 sacks on record.
Due to his height, the NFL started recording batted balls as “Too Tall” wreaked havoc on opposing quarterbacks who attempted to complete passes over him.
More importantly, Jones helped to lead the Cowboys to ten playoff appearances during his tenure in Dallas.
Even today, Ed “Too Tall” Jones is a wonderful ambassador for all things Dallas Cowboys as his legend extends far beyond the playing field.