As the 2024 NFL season kicks off Thursday night, fans can expect months of intense Dallas Cowboys coverage on ESPN’s First Take, a show that rarely shies away from controversial topics. However, Wednesday’s episode took an unexpected turn as the panel delved into an uncomfortable discussion about Cowboys owner Jerry Jones’ mortality.
During the episode, Chris “Mad Dog” Russo expressed skepticism over quarterback Dak Prescott’s value unless he leads Dallas on a deep playoff run. Russo dismissed the idea of Prescott being in the MVP conversation, arguing that it wouldn’t matter unless it resulted in the Cowboys making it to the Super Bowl. He went on to say that he believes Jerry Jones, who has long been supportive of Prescott, might not be willing to pay the quarterback big money without significant postseason success.
In making his point, Russo also implied that Jones may not have much patience left due to his age. The Cowboys owner is set to celebrate his 82nd birthday on October 13, and Russo suggested that time is no longer on Jones’ side.
Molly Qerim, co-host of First Take, seemed surprised by Russo’s focus on Jones’ age, asking, “Wait, is Jerry only 82? He’s younger than I thought.” Despite her attempt to deflect, Russo doubled down on his point.
“He’s not 40. Eighty-two’s not young,” Russo emphasized. “It’s not young, Molly. Not young. You can go any day at 82.”
While Russo’s comments weren’t intended to be morbid, the conversation veered into awkward territory as the panel grappled with the reality of aging. While it’s true that age can bring health concerns, many viewers might have felt that a sports debate show wasn’t the right platform to discuss such a sensitive subject, especially the potential passing of a high-profile figure like Jones.
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Jerry Jones, who purchased the Cowboys in 1989, has overseen the franchise’s rise to global prominence, including three Super Bowl championships. However, the team has not reached the NFC Championship Game since the 1995 season, and Jones is undoubtedly eager to capture another Lombardi Trophy before time runs out on his ownership era. Russo’s comments highlighted the pressure on Jones to see his team return to championship form sooner rather than later.
As the Cowboys head into the 2024 season, expectations are high. After three consecutive 12-win seasons, the pressure is mounting on both Dak Prescott and head coach Mike McCarthy to deliver a deep playoff run. For Prescott, this season is especially critical as it could impact his contract negotiations, and for McCarthy, anything less than an NFC Championship appearance may put his job in jeopardy.
Dallas begins its pursuit of a title this Sunday against the Cleveland Browns, with Jones undoubtedly watching closely. Whether the team can fulfill its promise and make another Super Bowl run remains to be seen, but Russo’s comments serve as a reminder that the stakes are higher than ever for Jones, whose desire for another championship is only intensified by the passage of time.
As for First Take, it’s safe to say that uncomfortable conversations about the Cowboys—and their iconic owner—will continue to dominate the airwaves throughout the season.
