Striking Heights: The Story Of Ed "Too Tall" Jones
Born Edward Lee Jones on February 23, 1951, in Jackson, Tennessee, Ed "Too Tall" Jones was destined to reach great heights, both literally and metaphorically. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 9 inches tall, his nickname "Too Tall" perfectly encapsulates his towering presence on and off the field. Growing up in a supportive family, Jones developed a passion for sports early on, which would eventually lead him to a successful career in the National Football League (NFL).
Jones' journey to NFL stardom was not without its challenges. Despite his natural talent, he faced skepticism due to his height, which was considered unusual for a defensive end. However, his perseverance and dedication to the game proved his doubters wrong, as he went on to become a key player for the Dallas Cowboys. Throughout his career, Jones became known for his incredible defensive skills, earning multiple accolades and leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Ed "Too Tall" Jones
- Early Life and Background
- Rise to Fame
- NFL Career Highlights
- Life After Football
- Personal Life
- What Made Ed "Too Tall" Jones Unique?
- Ed "Too Tall" Jones' Impact on the NFL
- How Did Ed "Too Tall" Jones Get His Nickname?
- Memorable Moments and Achievements
- Challenges Faced During His Career
- Ed "Too Tall" Jones in Pop Culture
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Biography of Ed "Too Tall" Jones
Ed "Too Tall" Jones was born Edward Lee Jones in Jackson, Tennessee, on February 23, 1951. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, he was one of the tallest players in NFL history. Jones attended Merry High School in Jackson, where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball, demonstrating his versatile athletic talent from a young age. His exceptional height and athleticism would eventually earn him a scholarship to Tennessee State University, where he continued to play multiple sports.
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Personal Details
| Full Name | Edward Lee Jones |
|---|---|
| Nickname | Ed "Too Tall" Jones |
| Birthdate | February 23, 1951 |
| Birthplace | Jackson, Tennessee, USA |
| Height | 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters) |
| Weight | 271 pounds (123 kg) |
| Position | Defensive End |
| College | Tennessee State University |
| NFL Team | Dallas Cowboys |
Early Life and Background
Growing up in the small town of Jackson, Tennessee, Ed "Too Tall" Jones was the third of five children in his family. His father worked as a farmer, while his mother was a homemaker who instilled strong values and discipline in her children. From a young age, Jones was encouraged to participate in sports as a way to stay active and out of trouble. His height and natural athletic ability made him a standout in both basketball and football during his high school years.
At Merry High School, Jones was a multi-sport athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball. While he excelled in all three sports, football quickly became his passion. Despite being relatively new to the game, Jones demonstrated incredible talent and was a force to be reckoned with on the field. His dedication and hard work paid off when he was offered a scholarship to Tennessee State University, where he would continue to hone his skills and prepare for a future in professional sports.
Rise to Fame
Ed "Too Tall" Jones' rise to fame began during his college years at Tennessee State University, where he played as a defensive end for the Tigers. His impressive performance on the field caught the attention of NFL scouts, and in 1974, Jones was selected as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. This marked the beginning of his illustrious career in professional football.
At Tennessee State, Jones was a dominant force on the defensive line. His height and wingspan made it difficult for opposing quarterbacks to throw over him, while his speed and agility allowed him to chase down ball carriers with ease. These attributes, combined with his relentless work ethic, made Jones a highly sought-after prospect in the NFL Draft.
NFL Career Highlights
Ed "Too Tall" Jones' NFL career is filled with numerous highlights and achievements that solidified his status as one of the greatest defensive ends in the history of the league. Playing for the Dallas Cowboys from 1974 to 1989, Jones became a key player in the team's formidable "Doomsday Defense." His contributions on the field helped the Cowboys secure three NFC Championships and a Super Bowl victory in 1978.
One of Jones' most notable accomplishments was his ability to deflect passes at the line of scrimmage, a skill that earned him the nickname "Too Tall." This unique ability, combined with his exceptional tackling and pass-rushing skills, made him a valuable asset to the Cowboys' defense. Over the course of his 15-season career, Jones recorded 57.5 sacks, an impressive feat given that sacks were not officially recorded until 1982.
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Life After Football
After retiring from professional football in 1989, Ed "Too Tall" Jones transitioned into various ventures, including acting and broadcasting. He appeared in several television shows and movies, including the popular TV series "Married... with Children" and the film "The Brothers." His charismatic personality and distinctive appearance made him a natural fit for the entertainment industry.
In addition to his work in entertainment, Jones has been involved in numerous charitable efforts and community initiatives. He has dedicated his time to mentoring young athletes and promoting education and health awareness programs. His commitment to giving back to his community has earned him respect and admiration beyond the football field.
Personal Life
Ed "Too Tall" Jones leads a private and fulfilling personal life. He is known for his humility and down-to-earth personality, traits that have endeared him to fans and peers alike. Despite his fame and success, Jones has remained grounded and focused on his family and personal interests.
Jones is a devoted father and grandfather, placing a strong emphasis on family values and spending quality time with his loved ones. He enjoys traveling, playing golf, and attending various sporting events. His love for sports remains a significant part of his life, as he continues to follow and support the Dallas Cowboys and other professional teams.
What Made Ed "Too Tall" Jones Unique?
Ed "Too Tall" Jones' towering height and exceptional athleticism set him apart from his peers and contributed to his success on the football field. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, Jones was one of the tallest players in NFL history, a characteristic that gave him a distinct advantage in his position as a defensive end.
- Height: His height allowed him to disrupt passes and block kicks effectively.
- Athleticism: Jones possessed a rare combination of speed, agility, and strength that made him a formidable opponent.
- Work Ethic: His dedication to improving his skills and conditioning was evident throughout his career.
- Versatility: Jones' ability to adapt and excel in multiple sports demonstrated his broad athletic talent.
Ed "Too Tall" Jones' Impact on the NFL
Ed "Too Tall" Jones' impact on the NFL extends beyond his on-field accomplishments. His success as a defensive end helped redefine the position and set a new standard for future players. Jones' ability to deflect passes and apply pressure on quarterbacks influenced defensive strategies and inspired other teams to seek taller, more athletic players for their defensive lines.
In addition to his contributions as a player, Jones has been a vocal advocate for player safety and health. He has spoken out about the importance of proper training and injury prevention, sharing his experiences and insights with current and future athletes. His commitment to the sport and its players has made him a respected figure in the football community.
How Did Ed "Too Tall" Jones Get His Nickname?
Ed "Too Tall" Jones earned his nickname due to his extraordinary height, which was considered unusual for a defensive end in the NFL. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, Jones towered over most of his teammates and opponents, making him a unique presence on the field.
The nickname "Too Tall" was initially given to Jones by his college teammates at Tennessee State University, who marveled at his height and ability to block passes. The moniker stuck with him throughout his professional career, becoming synonymous with his identity as a football player. Jones embraced the nickname, using it as a source of motivation and pride throughout his journey in the NFL.
Memorable Moments and Achievements
Throughout his illustrious career, Ed "Too Tall" Jones achieved numerous milestones and created memorable moments that have left a lasting impression on the sport of football. Some of his most notable achievements include:
- Super Bowl XII Champion: Jones played a pivotal role in the Dallas Cowboys' victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XII, helping secure the championship title.
- Three-Time Pro Bowl Selection: His exceptional performance on the field earned him Pro Bowl selections in 1981, 1982, and 1983.
- Defensive Dominance: Jones' ability to disrupt passes and apply pressure on quarterbacks made him a key component of the Cowboys' "Doomsday Defense."
- Longevity: Playing 15 seasons in the NFL, Jones demonstrated remarkable durability and consistency throughout his career.
Challenges Faced During His Career
Despite his success, Ed "Too Tall" Jones faced several challenges throughout his career. One of the most significant obstacles was the skepticism surrounding his height, which many believed would hinder his ability to perform as a defensive end. However, Jones proved his doubters wrong by leveraging his height to his advantage and becoming one of the most dominant players in the league.
Additionally, Jones faced the physical demands and pressures of playing professional football. Injuries and rigorous training regimens were part of the job, but Jones' commitment to maintaining his physical fitness and skill level allowed him to overcome these challenges and enjoy a long, successful career.
Ed "Too Tall" Jones in Pop Culture
Ed "Too Tall" Jones' larger-than-life persona and successful football career have made him a recognizable figure in popular culture. His unique nickname and towering stature have been referenced in various media, from television shows to movies. Jones has appeared in several television programs, including guest roles on "Married... with Children" and "The Brothers," showcasing his charismatic personality and versatility as an entertainer.
In addition to his on-screen appearances, Jones has been featured in sports documentaries and interviews, where he shares insights into his life and career. His story continues to inspire and entertain audiences, cementing his status as a cultural icon and a legendary figure in the world of sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What teams did Ed "Too Tall" Jones play for in the NFL?
Ed "Too Tall" Jones played his entire NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys from 1974 to 1989.
How tall is Ed "Too Tall" Jones?
Ed "Too Tall" Jones stands at 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters) tall, making him one of the tallest players in NFL history.
Why was Ed "Too Tall" Jones' height advantageous in football?
His height allowed him to block passes and disrupt plays, giving him an edge as a defensive end.
What is Ed "Too Tall" Jones known for besides football?
Besides football, Ed "Too Tall" Jones is known for his acting roles and involvement in community and charitable initiatives.
Did Ed "Too Tall" Jones win any championships with the Dallas Cowboys?
Yes, Ed "Too Tall" Jones was part of the Dallas Cowboys team that won Super Bowl XII in 1978.
Is Ed "Too Tall" Jones involved in any charitable work?
Yes, Ed "Too Tall" Jones actively participates in charitable efforts, focusing on mentoring young athletes and promoting education and health awareness programs.
Conclusion
Ed "Too Tall" Jones' story is one of triumph, resilience, and inspiration. His towering presence on the football field and his exceptional talent have left a lasting impact on the NFL and its fans. From his humble beginnings in Jackson, Tennessee, to his rise as a dominant defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys, Jones' journey is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Jones' contributions to his community and his involvement in charitable initiatives highlight his commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. His legacy extends beyond the gridiron, as he continues to inspire future generations with his story and his unwavering spirit.
Ed "Too Tall" Jones remains a beloved figure in the world of sports and beyond, embodying the qualities of a true champion both on and off the field. His story serves as a reminder that with determination and passion, one can overcome any obstacle and reach the pinnacle of success.
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Pictures of Ed 'Too Tall' Jones
Pictures of Ed 'Too Tall' Jones
