Cowboys’ linebacker Bradie James caused some waves last week when he said that in the recent past, the franchise has been doomed by a sense of entitlement. If nothing else, it was a brutally honest assessment of the team’s recent years from one of its leaders.
What’s more, according to Michael Irvin, the remarks could be a sign of a culture change at Valley Ranch, the result of Jason Garrett’s presence as head coach. Irvin, who played with Garrett for seven seasons in Dallas, believes his redheaded former teammate is bringing accountability back to Valley Ranch.
“I told you guys when Jason Garrett took over that he will change things,” Irvin said in a recent interview on the NFL Network, via the Dallas Morning News. “He’s going back to the old Jimmy Johnson style where you’re going to have to earn everything. And I certainly do like that.”
Of course, Garrett was a backup on those early- to mid-90s Cowboy teams that won Super Bowls, while Irvin was a star. But even back then, the Hall of Fame receiver saw an impressive work ethic from Troy Aikman’s backup.
“Jason Garrett was one of the guys that earned it,” Irvin said. “He didn’t step on the field on Super Bowl Sunday, but I worked his butt to death everyday in practice when I couldn’t go with Troy [Aikman]. So, he understands what it takes and he’s going to deliver it.”
Stay on top of the latest Dallas Cowboys news with NBCDFW.com. Follow NBC DFW Sports on Facebook or have breaking Cowboys news sent directly to your phone with Blue Star SMS alerts. Text "bluestar" to 622339 (NBCDFW) to subscribe to this free service. Read more about it here.
