Too Tall Jones: The Legendary Career Of An NFL Icon

Too Tall Jones, a name that resonates with football fans around the world, is not just a player; he is an icon who redefined the defensive end position in the NFL. With his towering height and exceptional athleticism, he became a cornerstone of the Dallas Cowboys during their dominant years in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This article will delve deep into his life, career, and the legacy he left behind.

In this comprehensive exploration, we will uncover the different facets of Too Tall Jones's life, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a football superstar. We will also discuss his contributions to the game and the impact he has made both on and off the field. By the end of this article, you will have a thorough understanding of who Too Tall Jones is and why he remains a celebrated figure in sports history.

Join us as we take a closer look at Too Tall Jones's biography, career highlights, and the lessons we can learn from his journey. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or someone new to the sport, this article promises to provide valuable insights into the life of one of football's greatest legends.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Too Tall Jones
• Early Life and Education
• NFL Career Highlights
• Legacy and Impact
• Personal Life
• Career Statistics
• Awards and Honors
• Conclusion

Biography of Too Tall Jones

Born on February 15, 1961, in Jackson, Michigan, Ed "Too Tall" Jones is best known for his time as a defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 9 inches, he was one of the tallest players in NFL history. His unique stature, combined with his incredible athletic ability, allowed him to dominate on the field.

Personal Data and Biodata

Early Life and Education

Too Tall Jones grew up in a modest household and showed an early interest in sports. He excelled in basketball and track before focusing on football during his high school years. After graduating, he attended Tennessee State University, where he made a name for himself on the football team. His impressive performance in college led to his selection as the first overall pick in the 1974 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.

NFL Career Highlights

Too Tall Jones had a remarkable career with the Dallas Cowboys, playing from 1974 to 1985. Here are some of the key highlights:

• Part of the legendary "Doomsday Defense," which was instrumental in the Cowboys' success during the late 1970s.
• Won Super Bowl XII with the Cowboys in 1978.
• Selected to three Pro Bowls (1975, 1977, 1978).
• Named an All-Pro in 1978.
• Recorded a career-high 12 sacks in 1978.

Legacy and Impact

Too Tall Jones's impact on the game extends beyond his statistics. He was a trailblazer for tall defensive ends, proving that height could be an advantage in the NFL. His contributions helped the Cowboys secure their status as one of the league's dominant teams during his tenure. Furthermore, his charisma and personality made him a fan favorite, contributing to the NFL's growing popularity.

Personal Life

Off the field, Too Tall Jones has been involved in various philanthropic efforts. He has worked with organizations that promote youth sports and education. Additionally, he pursued a career in entertainment, appearing in films and television shows, further showcasing his versatility.

Career Statistics

Throughout his NFL career, Too Tall Jones amassed impressive statistics that highlight his prowess as a defensive end:

• Games Played: 224
• Games Started: 190
• Career Sacks: 106
• Interceptions: 2

Awards and Honors

Too Tall Jones has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:

• Pro Bowl Selections: 3
• All-Pro Selections: 1
• Super Bowl Champion: 1

Conclusion

Too Tall Jones's journey from a young athlete in Michigan to a legendary NFL player is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His contributions to the sport have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future generations of football players. If you have any thoughts about Too Tall Jones or want to share your favorite memories of him, feel free to leave a comment below!

We hope you enjoyed this deep dive into the life and career of Too Tall Jones. Be sure to check out our other articles for more inspiring stories from the world of sports!