Jason Garrett: A Legacy Beyond the Field
Jason Garrett's extensive tenure with the Dallas Cowboys carved out a multifaceted career both on and off the field. Serving as a quarterback, offensive coordinator, and head coach, Garrett’s name became synonymous with the franchise through the highs and lows of two decades.
Few may recall Garrett as the backup quarterback who made his mark from 1993 to 1999. A period not defined by an abundance of field time but by the significant impact whenever he stepped up. Garrett secured victories in six of his nine starts, a testament to his resilience and adept understanding of the game.
It was after his playing days that Garrett's influence on the Cowboys truly deepened. Moving into coaching, he served as the team's offensive coordinator from 2007 until 2010. His strategizing prowess was clear, setting the stage for his appointment as head coach in 2010. Initially starting this role in an interim capacity, Garrett proved his mettle and transitioned to a full-time position from 2011 through 2019.
Under Garrett’s leadership, the Cowboys posted an 85-67 record and made three playoff appearances. One of the pinnacle moments of his coaching career came in 2016 when he was recognized as the NFL Coach of the Year. This accolade solidified his place among the upper echelons of the NFL coaching realm, highlighting a career underscored by perseverance and tactical brilliance.
Garrett reflected on his experiences at the Cowboys, particularly the lessons imbibed during his multifaceted tenure. "I learned a tremendous amount from Jerry Jones during my time there as a player, as an assistant coach, and as a head coach," Garrett shared, pointing to the deep-rooted mentorship he received from the Cowboys’ owner. This mentorship was not without its challenges, as Garrett noted, "Jerry is 82 years old, and he's done things a certain way for a long, long time," underscoring the delicate balance of tradition and innovation within the organization.
While the Cowboys have achieved 13 consecutive playoff appearances without securing the NFC title game since 1995, Garrett believes that thriving in such a pressure-cooker environment requires a special kind of coach. "The kind of coach who thrives there is someone who is a really good coach..." he mused, citing a need for a deft touch in managing and steering the wheel of one of the NFL’s most closely followed franchises.
Garrett’s philosophy extends beyond merely coaching on the field. It’s about holistic leadership encompassing all organizational facets. "When I say communicating and leading, it's not only to your staff and to your team, it's also leading upward in the organization..." Garrett articulated, emphasizing the significance of fostering a cohesive vision that transcends traditional boundaries.
As an analyst for NBC Sports, Garrett now channels his expertise into a broader commentary on the game, offering insights honed from years at the NFL’s frontline. Observing today’s successful teams, he often references “the obvious examples: Kansas City, Buffalo, Baltimore, some of the other ones,” teams known for their strategic foresight and robust organizational structure.
Garrett's journey through the NFL is more than just about wins and losses, although those matter profoundly. It's about a legacy of learning, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to the game of football—a testament to his enduring impact long after the final whistle of his coaching career at Dallas. As the Cowboys and their fans look towards future glories, Garrett’s footprint remains a significant part of the franchise’s storied history.