At six-foot-nine he was the tallest defensive end the game had ever seen, and the nickname stuck the first day he walked onto a practice field - a teammate took one look and said he was simply too tall for football. For fifteen seasons in Dallas, Ed 'Too Tall' Jones spent his career proving that wingspan, quickness and relentless will were exactly what the position demanded.
He came out of Tennessee State, a historically Black university that produced a string of pro greats, and in 1974 the Dallas Cowboys made him the first overall pick of the NFL Draft - the first and only time a player from an HBCU has gone number one. A two-time All-American who helped Tennessee State to Black college national championships, he arrived in Dallas as one of the most coveted prospects in the country.
Jones became a cornerstone of the Cowboys' famed defense, helping Dallas win Super Bowl XII after the 1977 season. Then, at the height of his powers, he did the unthinkable - he stepped away from football in 1979 to box professionally, running off a perfect 6-0 record with five knockouts before returning to the field even better than before. Back in Dallas he earned three straight Pro Bowl nods from 1981 to 1983 and finished with 106 sacks, 1,032 tackles and a franchise-record 194 career starts.
Durable to the end, he never missed a game across fifteen seasons - a record that still anchors his place in Cowboys lore. Today he is celebrated as one of the most singular figures in franchise history, recognized by the Texas Sports Hall of Fame and honored on the 50th anniversary of his historic draft, and he remains a generous presence at appearances, signings and on the stage.
A look across the years, on the field and off.
Career highlights, podcasts, interviews and football related videos.
The latest on Ed "Too Tall" Jones news - appearances, awards, football related articles.
A true gentleman and a giant in every sense - prepared, gracious, and unforgettable. Our guests are still talking about the stories he shared. Thanks for taking photos and signing autographs with everyone!
One of the most genuine legends we have ever brought in. He gave our crowd his full time and made everyone feel like they mattered.
Ed "Too Tall" is available year-round for speaking engagements, appearances, endorsements, and signings. Fill out the form with as many details as possible for a quick response on fees and availability.
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