The legacy of the Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic football teams in the NFL, is built on the shoulders of its legendary players. Over the years, the team has seen its fair share of gridiron greats donning the star-studded helmets, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. But what happens to these football heroes after they hang up their cleats? Let’s take a journey to find out where some of the most beloved Dallas Cowboys former players are now.
The Quarterback Legends
- Tony Romo: After retiring from football, Tony Romo transitioned into broadcasting, becoming one of the most respected and beloved NFL color commentators. His ability to predict plays and provide insightful analysis has made him a fan favorite. Romo has been working with CBS Sports, notably alongside Jim Nantz, offering his expertise during games and in the studio.
- Dak Prescott’s Predecessor, Jason Garrett’s Favorite, Jon Kitna: Jon Kitna, who played for the Cowboys among other teams, has had a fulfilling post-NFL career. He has been involved in coaching, initially at the high school level, and has also been involved in various business ventures. Kitna’s story is one of resilience and dedication, showcasing how former players can find success in multiple fields.
The Running Backs: Carrying the Load On and Off the Field
- Emmitt Smith: The NFL’s all-time leading rusher has stayed busy since his retirement. Smith was a contestant on “Dancing with the Stars” and has been involved in various business ventures, including real estate. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010, a testament to his incredible career. Smith remains a beloved figure in Dallas, often attending Cowboys games and supporting the team.
- DeMarco Murray: After a successful playing career, Murray transitioned into coaching. He began as a running backs coach at the University of Arizona and has since moved on to other coaching roles. Murray’s transition into coaching is a common path for many former players, allowing them to stay involved in the sport they love.
The Receivers: Catching More Than Just Passes
- Michael Irvin: Known as “The Playmaker,” Irvin has had a storied post-playing career. He’s worked as an analyst for the NFL Network and has appeared in various TV shows and films. Irvin was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007. His larger-than-life personality has made him a fan favorite in broadcasting, offering candid and insightful comments on the sport.
- Dez Bryant: After his playing days, Dez Bryant has remained active in football, albeit in different capacities. He has been involved in coaching and has expressed interest in pursuing a career in sports management or broadcasting. Bryant’s passion for the sport is undeniable, and his future endeavors will likely keep him close to the game.
The Defensive Heroes
- Deion Sanders: Primetime has stayed in the spotlight since his retirement. Sanders has worked as an analyst for NFL Network and has been involved in various entertainment projects. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011. Sanders is known for his flamboyant style and catching phrase, “Must be the shoes,” and has remained a cultural icon in sports.
- Charles Haley: A key member of the Cowboys’ Super Bowl teams in the 1990s, Haley has been open about his struggles with bipolar disorder. He has been involved in various philanthropic efforts and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015. Haley’s story highlights the challenges many players face after their playing careers and the importance of mental health support.
The Linemen: Holding It Down
- Larry Allen: After his illustrious playing career, Larry Allen was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013. He has been involved in coaching, sharing his knowledge with the next generation of linemen. Allen’s transition into coaching is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his desire to give back.
- Tyron Smith: Although still relatively young in retirement terms, Tyron Smith, one of the most dominant left tackles in his prime, has been focusing on his health and personal life. His future plans include business ventures and potentially staying involved in football through coaching or analysis. Smith’s story is one of overcoming adversity and finding new passions post-retirement.
Conclusion
The journey of Dallas Cowboys former players after their NFL careers is a testament to their resilience, passion, and the enduring legacy of America’s Team. From broadcasting to coaching, business, and philanthropy, these icons have found numerous ways to stay involved in the sport and give back to their communities. Their stories serve as inspiration, showing how careers can evolve and flourish even after the final whistle blows.
FAQ Section
What has Tony Romo been doing since his retirement from the NFL?
+Tony Romo has transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, working as a color commentator for CBS Sports. He is known for his ability to predict plays and provide insightful analysis during games.
Where is Emmitt Smith now, and what has he been involved in post-NFL?
+Emmitt Smith, the NFL’s all-time leading rusher, has been involved in various business ventures, including real estate. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010 and remains a beloved figure in Dallas, often attending Cowboys games.
What is Michael Irvin doing now, and how has he stayed involved in football?
+Michael Irvin, known as “The Playmaker,” works as an analyst for the NFL Network and has appeared in TV shows and films. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007 and continues to be a charismatic figure in sports broadcasting.
How have Dallas Cowboys former players given back to their communities?
+Many former Dallas Cowboys players have been involved in philanthropic efforts, coaching, and mentoring. They have also participated in business ventures and broadcasting, using their platforms to give back to their communities and support the next generation of football talent.
What advice would former Dallas Cowboys players give to current players about life after football?
+Former players often advise current players to plan for life after football, whether through education, business ventures, or coaching. They also emphasize the importance of health, both physical and mental, and the value of staying connected to the football community and giving back.
