Jerry Jones takes over podium to announce Jason Garrett has full control
Posted at 3:42 PM on Thu., Jan. 6, 2011 | Permalink | Yahoo! Buzz
Rainer Sabin / Reporter Bio | E-mail | News tips
One of the most awkward and illuminating moments occurred simultaneously at the news conference Thursday when Jason Garrett was officially named the Cowboys' eighth head coach. That's when owner general manager Jerry Jones interrupted Garrett's dialogue with the media at Cowboys Stadium to make a point.
"Jason will have the final say on any person that leaves the coaching staff and comes to the coaching staff," he said before adding, "There won't be a player on this team that Jason does not want on the team."
For years, it has been assumed the Jones had control over every personnel decision with the team. Outside the organization, he has long been viewed as a meddlesome owner who has limited the head coach's scope of influence. Jones is aware of that perception, which prompted him to assure the fans that he will defer to Garrett as he assembles a coaching staff and tinkers with the roster.
"I wanted to make sure fans knew the extent of his power," Jones said. "You know that I am criticized for making decisions in areas fans would like for coaches to make."
When it was suggested Thursday that Jones acquired receiver Terrell Owens in 2006 without former coach Bill Parcells' approval, Jones' smile faded.
"Bill and I both agreed he ought to be on the team," Jones said.
Five years after that move was made, Garrett said he welcomes the autonomy that Jones has provided him, adding that "it's important to have guys you feel very good about coaching your football team and obviously guys you feel very good about playing for your football team."
On Monday, Garrett said it was his decision to promote Paul Pasqualoni to defensive coordinator on Nov. 8, the day Wade Phillips was fired. He said he will continue to consult with Jones, who expressed that he is receptive to Garrett's input and has faith he can execute a plan that will yield better results for the Cowboys.
"The thing I want you to understand is how much I value his judgment," Jones said. "I happen to buy into how he maps out his thought process."
Minutes later, Jones smiled and said cryptically, "But we all know an owner can change his mind."