For over two decades, Jason Garrett has been a notable figure within the Dallas Cowboys organization. His tenure as a player, coach, and now commentator has given him a unique perspective on the workings of one of the most storied franchises in NFL history.
A Quarterback's Journey
Garrett’s journey with the Cowboys began in 1993 when he joined the team as a backup quarterback. Over a six-year period, until 1999, Garrett carved out a niche for himself on the field, demonstrating an effective command as a starter by securing victory in six out of nine starts – a testament to his abilities and leadership on the gridiron.
Leadership Transition
After hanging up his cleats, Garrett smoothly transitioned into coaching. He returned to the Cowboys in 2007 as the offensive coordinator, a role he held until 2010. It wasn’t long before his leadership qualities were recognized, and he was promoted to head coach, initially as an interim in 2010 and then full-time from 2011 through 2019. Under his guidance, the Cowboys amassed a commendable 85-67 record, clinching three playoff appearances.
A Resilient Coach
Garrett’s coaching style, which emphasized clear communication and fostering leadership throughout the organization, was pivotal during his tenure. "When I say communicating and leading, it's not only to your staff and to your team, it's also leading upward in the organization," Garrett remarked, showcasing his holistic approach to team dynamics and organizational leadership.
His adept skills in leadership and strategy didn't go unnoticed; in 2016, Garrett was named the NFL Coach of the Year, a fitting accolade for a coach who managed to steer one of the league's most high-profile teams through both triumph and adversity.
Learning from Legends
Garrett often attributes much of his learning and coaching philosophy to the experiences garnered under the tutelage of Cowboys’ owner Jerry Jones. "I learned a tremendous amount from Jerry Jones during my time there as a player, as an assistant coach, and as a head coach," Garrett said, indicating the profound impact Jones had on his professional growth. Despite acknowledging Jones’s age and traditional ways, Garrett remained respectful and appreciative of the opportunities afforded to him by the Cowboys’ long-time owner. "Jerry is 82 years old, and he's done things a certain way for a long, long time," he noted.
Post-Coaching Reflections
Having moved on from coaching, Garrett now lends his insights as an analyst for NBC Sports, offering thoughtful commentary grounded in years of first-hand experience. In reflecting on franchise success, however, Garrett points to thriving teams like Kansas City, Buffalo, and Baltimore as exemplars of successful management and strategic prowess. "Look at the obvious examples: Kansas City, Buffalo, Baltimore, some of the other ones..." he stated, hinting at the structures and strategies that the Cowboys might emulate to break their cycle of playoff appearances without reaching the NFC title game since 1995.
The Dallas Cowboys, a team with a rich legacy yet troubled by recent postseason frustrations, continue to search for a formula that will return them to their former glory. Meanwhile, Garrett remains a respected voice in the world of football, his insights ever rooted in firsthand experiences forged over years of dedication to the sport.