October 1, 1989: Ed “Too Tall” Jones Reaches Milestone 1,000th Tackle Against Giants

On October 1, 1989, history was made at Texas Stadium when Dallas Cowboys defensive end Ed “Too Tall” Jones recorded his 1,000th NFL tackle. A monumental achievement, this milestone marked another defining moment in Jones’ remarkable career. Standing at 6-foot-9, Jones was known for his towering presence and unmatched defensive prowess, and on that day, he solidified his place among the all-time greats in Cowboys history.

The game itself saw the Cowboys take on the New York Giants in a hard-fought contest, but despite Jones’ individual performance, Dallas fell to the Giants with a 30-13 defeat. Even in a losing effort, Jones’ accomplishment stood out. In a career filled with accolades, this milestone was a testament to his longevity, durability, and dominance on the field.

Jones was drafted first overall by the Dallas Cowboys in 1974 from Tennessee State University, making him the first player from a historically Black college or university (HBCU) to be selected as the top pick in an NFL Draft. At Tennessee State, Jones showcased his rare combination of size, strength, and agility, which quickly made him a standout and future NFL star.

His ability to disrupt both the run and passing games made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. His size often gave him an advantage, but it was his relentless work ethic and football IQ that truly elevated his game. Throughout his career, Jones became known for his ability to bat down passes at the line of scrimmage and dominate offensive linemen, solidifying his role as one of the league’s premier defenders.

Reaching 1,000 tackles is no small feat, particularly for a defensive lineman. While linebackers and safeties typically accumulate the majority of tackles, Jones’ ability to control the line of scrimmage and track down ball carriers set him apart. His physical gifts, combined with his preparation and dedication, enabled him to sustain excellence throughout his 15-year career.

Jones was a key figure in the Cowboys’ legendary “Doomsday Defense,” a unit that helped lead the team to multiple playoff appearances and two Super Bowl titles during his tenure. He was selected to three Pro Bowls and was a first-team All-Pro in 1981, highlighting his elite talent and leadership on the field.

Jones’ 1,000th tackle wasn’t just a personal achievement; it symbolized his consistency and dedication to the game. His longevity in such a physically demanding position is a testament to his resilience and ability to perform at a high level year after year.

Though the Cowboys were unable to secure a win that day, the significance of Jones’ milestone was not lost on anyone in attendance. For Cowboys fans, Jones was more than just a great player – he was the embodiment of toughness, determination, and excellence that defined the team during his era.

As he walked off the field on that October day, having added his 1,000th tackle to an already impressive resume, Ed “Too Tall” Jones further cemented his legacy as one of the all-time greats in Cowboys and NFL history. His impact on the game, both on and off the field, will be remembered for generations to come.