3 Questions with Stephen Jones

by tdships on Feb 18, 2011 2:06 PM CST

I live in Indy, which recently enabled me to shake hands with Troy Aikman at a fine dining restaurant the weekend of the Cowboy-Colt game. My stepdaughter works at this restaurant and, in fact, called me when she confirmed Troy was in the building. This facility also has about 6 hotel rooms, one of them the penthouse which comprises of - a living room/dining room 2 bedrooms and a balcony with a hot tub looking over a busy downtown street. Shaq called it his favorite place to stay on the road, as they have 9' showers.

Jerry and Stephen Jones always stay there during the Combine. And park their ginormous Cowboy RV in front of the building all during the week it's going on.

The last 2 years, I have been traveling on business, but the prior few I've met my college frat brother, Marty Hurney, GM for the Panthers for drinks and bumped into the Texans Exec entourage the year they had the #1 pick and utimatley selected Mario Williams. They actually talked to me in a Hooters about Reggie Bush. It's well known around town Peter King and a bunch of sportswriters convene at Julian's, a local watering hole on FRI nite. Etc. Etc.

The point of all this - the last 2 years, my daughter has seen Stephen Jones, sitting at the bar of the hotel/restaurant eating dinner alone, at some point during the Combine. She told him last year, her step-dad had a number of things I wished to discuss as a die-hard Cowboy fan and he laughed. With our, 'There's a Cowboy in the house' early warning system already up and working, I believe there's a significant window of opportunity. And being the generous, inclusive person I consider myself to be, I think we ought to collaberate accordingly. All of us are smarter than 1 of us. Or at least me.

So here goes. Assume you have 15 minutes of quality alone time at a bar in a busy, but not crowded restaurant. You are seated, if not immediately next to, than within comfortable talking distance of Stephen Jones. Assume a few, not too many beverages have/are being consumed. Three questions, with a chance for related follow-up/discussion. Go. What would you say?

I actually like the fact that it's Stephen and not Jerry, although if JJ walked in near the end, that would be icing on the cake. Here's my take:

1) Why have the Cowboys done a poor job of addressing positions before they become a major problem - as in OL, Safety and and to a lesser extent ILB/DE?

2) On a scale of 1-10, where would you rate your influence in the Executive hierarchy? when do you see JJ/Dad moving aside and taking a less prominent role? would you hire a 'Football' GM?

3) What is the organization's biggest deficiency - talent evaluation? marketing at the expense of football operations? And what can you do to address it in the short and long term?

As you can see, I've deliberately stayed away from the silly or provocative in order to make this worthwhile, and keep Stephen in his seat. So I am skipping the obvious:

when exactly did your Dad lose his mind?
can you sedate or keep JJ away from the war room on this draft day? just this once
are their openings for cheerleader talent evaluations?

If this gets some traction, I would pick the Top 5 or so around TUE, then post a Poll to pick the Final 3, closing the voting on FRI Noon EST. I will reserve some editorial oversight for input.

Have at it!

Another user-created commentary provided by a BTB reader.

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Comments

people sleep on Stephen

he isnt a moron, he is logical and is actually a pretty smart guy
he wanted to cut TO, he wanted to fire Fatso and hire Shannahan, wanted to bring in a football consultant
he understands football man
I cant wait until he runs the team because he will bring in a GM

by Archie Barberio on Feb 18, 2011 2:22 PM CST reply actions

he wanted to fire Fatso and hire Shannahan

The first part would have been good, the second part not so much

Lifelong Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
My Beer Blog: http://tiltingsuds.wordpress.com/

by Seanrude on Feb 18, 2011 4:54 PM CST up reply actions

still

he understood Wade suckedm and shannahan could bring this up

by Archie Barberio on Feb 18, 2011 8:50 PM CST up reply actions

I like the questions

you defn will have to post the answers if you see him and remember them haha

by thebigham on Feb 18, 2011 2:30 PM CST reply actions

I would be careful with question #2

On a scale of 1-10, where would you rate your influence in the Executive hierarchy? when do you see JJ/Dad moving aside and taking a less prominent role? would you hire a ‘Football’ GM?

First part is fine, but asking about a “Football” GM may sting a bit. I think Stephen does consider himself a capable Football GM – he has grown up around it and worked in the league for decades. It’s kind of like you are saying that you don’t consider him and JJ Football GM’s and are asking when the team will finally hire one.

I think I would word it differently and ask him about his view on the previous attempts to hire Dan Reeves as a football consultant, and if he thinks that is a position that could still benefit the team, or something he would look to if/when he becomes owner or GM.

Depending on how many drinks are ordered, I might even ask him what’s his assumption on the timeline until JJ retires, how involved would JJ be if he was only the owner and no longer the GM, and what Stephen thinks is the % chance that JJ hands the GM keys to him.

"I am a true believer. Anthony Spencer will have 7 or more sacks in 2011 and Stephen Bowen can ball!" - Kegbearer
"Football is an incredible game. Sometimes it's so incredible, it's unbelievable."
- Tom Landry

by Kegbearer on Feb 18, 2011 2:48 PM CST reply actions

How about . . .

What is the main difference in the relationship between the owners of the team (meaning both JJ and Stephen) and Redhaired Jesus vs the one with Wade, Destroyer of Pastries? (OK, maybe you should use their proper names.) LOVE to hear his take on how things have changed.

Also love to find out what he thinks needs to be done to get a CBA in place, and how he thinks a lockout would affect the league.

If at first you don't succeed - blame someone else.

by Tom Ryle on Feb 18, 2011 5:04 PM CST reply actions

1. is dallas aware of sackseer and the correlation between
-games missed
-college sack rate
-short shuttle
-vertical
And productivity as an NFL pass rusher?
Follow ups
-have you scouted eric noorwood
-do you a strength program to bring player’s with average athletic markers (spencer, butler, williams, etc, etc) up to elite levels?

2. Is dallas aware of the lewin career forecast (completion % and games started) as a predictor of QB success. Mccoy topped the list last year. Mcelroy probably tops it this year.

3. how much authority are you giving Ken Kovash

by Fan in Thick and Thin on Feb 18, 2011 5:26 PM CST reply actions

Stephen seems pretty statistically savvy, so I would be surprised if he didn’t. The next logical step if so would be to ask if he puts any stock into them. I like the questions though fit.

by G_SWAG on Feb 19, 2011 1:10 AM CST up reply actions

Other than the gal from Northern Exposure, have you nailed any other hot celebrities?

Lifelong Cowboys Fan from the Swamps of Jersey
My Beer Blog: http://tiltingsuds.wordpress.com/

by Seanrude on Feb 18, 2011 6:13 PM CST reply actions

that is the other brother

she was pretty fine

by I_miss_Switzer on Feb 22, 2011 4:49 PM CST up reply actions

Are offensive lineman valued as highly on draft day as all other positions?
Is it a team concept to only trust veteran offensive lineman?

by connery on Feb 18, 2011 7:29 PM CST reply actions

This is a good one, asking them if they would take an offensive lineman if he was the BPA in the 1st.

by G_SWAG on Feb 19, 2011 1:07 AM CST up reply actions

I'd ask him about the cap situation

and if they are able to get rid of some of these underperforming contracts without a cap hit before March 4.

If so, what exactly are they waiting for?

If not, how are they planning to come up with cap room to bring in new players.

by fivetwos on Feb 18, 2011 8:07 PM CST reply actions

No.

I wouldn’t ask about players getting cut. Seems like a sensitive subject.

by G_SWAG on Feb 19, 2011 1:01 AM CST up reply actions

Didn't say to mention a specific name.

Even so, that’s a lot less sensitive than asking the guy about hiring a “football GM” wouldn’t you say??

by fivetwos on Feb 19, 2011 5:40 AM CST up reply actions

Haha for sure! However even if you did ask I’m sure you’d get a very stock response.

by G_SWAG on Feb 19, 2011 12:49 PM CST up reply actions

i think that could be provocative questions for him

he would turn into jerry’s mode to response

by ratware on Feb 19, 2011 12:26 AM CST reply actions

Honestly, all three questions are provocative and accusatory...

Why don’t you ask some broad questions and allow him to fill in the blanks?…approach it like a concerned fan…and let him try ease your concerns. Go in there like a nosy reporter, and he’ll go on the defensive.

A good question to start with might be…“I’m a huge Cowboys fan, what’s going on lately with the team, we seem to be great in some games and not in others…?” Allow him an avenue to fill in the blanks.

Buying him a drink and treating him like a friend wouldn’t hurt either…you know, the socail graces our parents taght us still work…

by CaliFanInTx on Feb 19, 2011 1:52 AM CST reply actions

I agree

The questions proposed are way too aggressive for a casual meeting. Here are three that I would propose

You’ve been an integral part of the Cowboys organization now for 20 years, including the 90’s heyday. Jason Garrett made a point of emphasizing “The Cowboy Way”, and that resonated very strongly with the fanbase. What do you think “The Cowboy Way” is?
Obviously, the draft is a big topic right now, but looking at the current roster, which of the young, unheralded players do you expect to have a breakout season next year?
Free agency is likely to take place after the draft this year, if at all. How does that influence the Cowboys personnel strategy going forward, and with the relatively low activity level in free agency last year, can fans expect the Cowboys to make a splash or two in free agency this year?

And do take CaliFan’s advice to heart: “Buying him a drink and treating him like a friend wouldn’t hurt either…you know, the social graces our parents tought us still work…”

by One.Cool.Customer on Feb 19, 2011 9:04 AM CST up reply actions 2 recs

I like those.

It would be interesting to see how he ( not Jerry ) views the current roster and the young players on it. The first question could give a lot of insight on whether he sees the team from the football side or the business side and the last question coupled with the first would be a guide as to what to expect in the draft. Well done OCC.

by oldboysfan on Feb 19, 2011 10:58 AM CST up reply actions

As usual OCC is spot on.

If I had a nickel for every time the Eagles won the Super Bowl, I would have zero nickels

by Creasy729 on Feb 19, 2011 3:57 PM CST up reply actions

You'd better take OCC with you...

and point out that there’s a ton of quality information and evaluation happening right here at BTB. Anytime he needs advice, we’re always two steps ahead!

Here’s my take:
I love the “Cowboy Way” question.

I’d also go with something general about his philosophy on football—is the future of the league offense or defense, running or passing, etc.

And something about how he continues to improve himself as a football guy—who does he talk to, does he study film, does he learn from scouts or coaches or former players.

As a guy talking to a stranger over dinner, you’re not going to get inside info on draft plans or FA needs or players on the roster. But you might get a first-hand look at the future of the franchise, how he thinks and who he leans on and learns from. That’s what I’d be looking for given this opportunity. (okay, I’d be waaaay too shy to say much more than "great to meet you, huge fan, can I get your autograph…)

by greatwhitenorth on Feb 19, 2011 8:47 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs

Word

I like your two questions even better than mine.

by One.Cool.Customer on Feb 20, 2011 1:39 AM CST up reply actions

Agree as well

I’m looking for insight into the mentality, philosophy of the assumed-to-be heir apparent(literally). Someone who has literally grown up in the sport and the organization. The tactical(players, draft picks) is almost too limiting.

And although he’s somewhat of an unknown(especially when compared to JJ)his influence seems to be on the rise. Most of all, the community and fan base see him as a moderating influence on JJ, it would be helpful to gain some insight on that.

We live life forwards and understand it backwards

by tdships on Feb 20, 2011 1:13 PM CST up reply actions

Nailed it

OCC’s initially had me, but you’re right, they’d require more familiarity than a casual aquaintanceship. Your 2 questions combined with his “Cowboys Way” are ideal prompters of revealing food-for-thought answers in such a situation.

Like td said, “All of us are smarter than 1 of us”.

I have issues with his statement following that one (with respect to him), but I’ll leave it alone other than saying “Buddy, you’re wrong. Just plain wrong.”

Point After (rule change): You score, you kick. Debate welcomed.

by tanstaafl on Feb 23, 2011 10:31 AM CST up reply actions

Good stuff

And my social graces are off the hook. I absolutely understand the need to keep it casual, friendly in order for a good exchange. Last thing you want to do is shut him down, especially right off the bat.

We live life forwards and understand it backwards

by tdships on Feb 19, 2011 11:32 AM CST reply actions

Make sure we get Rahim.

It’s not a question, I don’t really care, I’M TALKING TO MR. JONES, amirite?

And maybe ask why they keep neglecting safety when it’s quite obvious what a stud safety does for a team.

by deezl on Feb 19, 2011 1:32 PM CST reply actions

If I could ask him one question...

I’d ask him if they make their draft board as a mock of what they anticipate other teams doing or a straight “these are the best players in this order” sort of deal. Because sometimes I wonder when I see those linemen so high in the first round.

by Ekijoh on Feb 19, 2011 10:36 PM CST reply actions

Okay, I'll be realistic

This is never going to happen, and if by some chance it did, SJ isn’t going to give away anything. It will all be disinformation, and politically correct answers. So…why edit the questions? Ask freaking away. Especially if you’ve had a couple of drinks. Hell, look what that got the fans that had drinks with JJ. Of course, SJ doesn’t seem as loose lipped as JJ.

After 2 Billy beers, and 3 shots of Jack, I ask:

1. When is this team gonna get it through their thick heads that they have to build through the draft? That includes the offensvie line.

2. Is Garrett really in control of football decisions?

3. Is the Jones family aware of how pissed off the fans are at JJ all the time, or do they rationalize it by saying the fans don’t know what really goes on?

4. When are you going to DEMAND veto power over your father?

5. Can I have ten million dollars?

If you can't fix it with a hammer, you've got an electrical problem.

by White Wolf on Feb 20, 2011 11:32 AM CST reply actions

HAHAHA +1

Though you may need an extra shot between each of those, to culminate into a more toasted Jones for the grand finally of #4 and then #5

by Kegbearer on Feb 20, 2011 5:10 PM CST up reply actions

If he was really honest with you

he’d say his dad will always be in charge, that won’t change

In Romo we Trust

by Terry on Feb 20, 2011 1:56 PM CST reply actions

tall showers

“Shaq called it his favorite place to stay on the road, as they have 9’ showers.”

that’s pretty funny, even at 6’2" I often find myself having to stoop under showers at hotels. must be pretty frustrating for a guy his size lol.

by scottmaui on Feb 20, 2011 3:35 PM CST reply actions

He has to look like that scene in Elf

When he’s thinking back to all of the times he should have known he wasn’t an elf :)

by Nickthegrip on Feb 21, 2011 4:46 PM CST up reply actions

For reasons no one knows

Cowboys/Jones did not reserve the suites this year, so the Steelers(jeez)Execs are staying there.

We’ll try to keep up with the Joneses locale. He still may wind up in the restaurant. Stayed tuned.

We live life forwards and understand it backwards

by tdships on Feb 23, 2011 9:50 AM CST reply actions

I would pepper your conversation with compliments

like “great move making Garrett head coach,” and “you guys got some real playmakers in last year’s draft” and things like that.

I have to agree with Terry, in that Stephen must know that this will be Jerry’s team and his input with play a leading role in the team’s direction until his father either dies or suffers an incapacitating stroke, a la Joe Kennedy Sr.

by DavidH22 on Feb 23, 2011 12:28 PM CST reply actions

Ask him why he doesn't have a BTB account

Semper Fi Do or Die

by Jeremiah_24 on Feb 23, 2011 4:56 PM CST reply actions

But he does

You just haven’t figured out who he is yet :-)

by One.Cool.Customer on Feb 24, 2011 4:19 PM CST up reply actions

Well help us out with that than OCC!

Trace that IP address, we all know u can!

Semper Fi Do or Die

by Jeremiah_24 on Feb 24, 2011 7:22 PM CST up reply actions

ha ha ha

Maybe somebody can to a Fanpost like this one, only instead of figuring out what plane types correspond with which Cowboys player, the topic would be which member of the Cowboys staff is hiding behind which BTB blogging account.

by One.Cool.Customer on Feb 25, 2011 7:53 AM CST up reply actions

Lol

Can you for real do that?

by Ben24626 on Feb 25, 2011 7:46 PM CST up reply actions

While I appreciate the Link OCC

I refuse to be party to a highly unethical and possibly illegal activity….LOL

formerly I draft the Cowboys!!!
Yes...I am Ironman....seriously my last name is ironman in German

Knowledge and Skill overcome superstition and Luck-Dawn Patrol

by I am Ironman!!! on Feb 26, 2011 1:53 PM CST up reply actions

I've got you all figured out anyway

Ironman = Eisenman

Thinly veiled reference to backup QB Chris GrEISEN. You joined SB Nation on January 8th, 2011, Chris Greisen was signed by the Cowboys on Dec. 27th. Another dude named I draft the Cowboys!!! mysteriously disappeared around the same time and last logged into BTB on December 29th, 2010. Coincidence? I think not.

See, it’s not that hard.

by One.Cool.Customer on Feb 26, 2011 3:43 PM CST up reply actions

wow OCC

I only wish I was Chris Greisen….though I have always thought of my self as a WR and Not A QB….

formerly I draft the Cowboys!!!
Yes...I am Ironman....seriously my last name is ironman in German

Knowledge and Skill overcome superstition and Luck-Dawn Patrol

by I am Ironman!!! on Feb 28, 2011 9:33 PM CST up reply actions

Though you did get My last name right...

My Full given name is Aaron Leslie Eisenman, I am a Husband of one, Father of two,(my Mini me’s are my Avatar) and was Born Dec. 24, 1979 at John Peter Smith Hospital in Fort Worth Texas.

formerly I draft the Cowboys!!!
Yes...I am Ironman....seriously my last name is ironman in German

Knowledge and Skill overcome superstition and Luck-Dawn Patrol

by I am Ironman!!! on Feb 28, 2011 9:38 PM CST up reply actions

I just really dislike this thread

I understand your enthusiasm. I think, as a fan, you should honor your special access to the Cowboy’s by asking for little more than an autograph. Maybe ask them about what College teams they think will do well next year.

Men need their off time and you’re one of the principle providers of it. Or at least your involved in supporting it.

by AustonianAggie on Feb 27, 2011 2:42 AM CST reply actions