Troy Aikman Says Cowboys Role Never Came

troy aikman said he was not surprised the Cowboys never offered him a front-office role, and he did not expect that type of opportunity with the franchise. He said the fit would have been ideal because he lives there, played there and has a 12-year history with the organization.

Troy Aikman And Jerry Jones

Aikman said, "I didn't expect that type of opportunity with the Cowboys" and added, "So I'm not surprised it hasn't come." He also said, "Yeah, ideally because it's where I live," before adding, "It's where I've played. I have a 12-year history with the organization and then it's right in my backyard, obviously that would have been ideal."

He drew a line between that missed opening and his current outlook on the franchise. "I've only played for one team," Aikman said. "It's not one of these situations where my allegiances have been split as a player."

Miami Dolphins Reached Out

Aikman said he still roots for the Cowboys, but he also has a rooting interest for the Miami Dolphins after they asked if he could help them. This offseason, he worked with Miami as a consultant and helped with the hiring of the Dolphins' new general manager and head coach.

The contrast is plain. One organization stayed at a distance while another brought in a former star to help with major decisions. Jerry Jones has said his door is always open to former players, but last season he did not respond publicly after Aikman said the team should not make a trade at the deadline.

Dallas Cowboys Legacy

The broader backdrop is the one Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Darren Woodson have pushed against: three of the greatest players in franchise history still want more room in the Cowboys' decision-making structure. Dallas won three Super Bowl rings in the 1990s and two titles in the 1970s, but the franchise has gone 30 years without winning a Super Bowl.

Aikman said his relationship with Jones remains intact. "No, our relationship is cordial," he said. "We talk when we run into each other."