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Cowboys Head Coach Takes Firm Stand Amid Jerry Jones Controversy
Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Jerry Jones has been one of the NFL’s most influential and polarizing figures since purchasing the Dallas Cowboys in 1989. Under his ownership, the franchise has become the most valuable in American sports, boasting three Super Bowl titles in the 1990s and a global brand reputation.

Yet despite that success, the Cowboys have endured nearly three decades without a Super Bowl appearance — their last coming in the 1995 season. Over the years, the 83-year-old has faced increasing criticism for his involvement in football operations and for failing to build a roster capable of consistent postseason success despite having the assets to do so.

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

That frustration reached new heights this week after Jones made headlines for comments to The Wall Street Journal about his business interests in natural gas.

“There’s $100 billion present value with [natural] gas out there,” Jones told Benoît Morenne. “That’s why I’m talking to you on the telephone rather than trying to fix our defense with the Dallas Cowboys.”

The remark quickly went viral, as fans viewed it as dismissive of the team’s on-field struggles, particularly its defensive shortcomings.

Amid the backlash, Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer addressed the situation during an appearance on 105.3 The Fan. He said he understood why fans were frustrated but defended Jones’ commitment to winning, according to Cowboys beat writer Jon Machota of The Athletic.

“We sit down every Monday and every Friday with Jerry, Stephen and the coordinators for long meetings,” Schottenheimer explained.

“Jerry, Stephen and I talk almost every day by phone as well. At the end of the day, I can promise you one thing — no one wants to win more than Jerry Jones. And it’s our job to go out there and do that.”

The comments come at a turbulent time for Dallas. The team's defense has struggled all season following the trade of Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. The unit ranks near the bottom of the league in total defense and pass-rush efficiency, and with the Tuesday's trade deadline approaching, the Cowboys have been linked to potential reinforcements such as Las Vegas Raiders star rusher Maxx Crosby. Fans, however, remain skeptical the front office will make the aggressive moves necessary to salvage the season.

Jones’ remarks may have reopened old wounds, but Schottenheimer’s message was clear — the focus inside the building remains on football. The Cowboys (3-4-1) will aim to reset when they return to action in Week 9, facing the Arizona Cardinals (2-5) at 8:15 p.m. ET Monday, with live coverage on ESPN/ABC.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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