Story perspectives

Emmitt Smith Blames Cowboys' Drought on Lost Principles

4/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Emmitt Smith, a Dallas Cowboys legend, says the team's 30-year National Football Conference Championship Game drought stems from departing from foundational principles.
He calls for a passionate, unified approach to winning, echoing the early days under Jimmie Johnson and Jerry Jones.
Smith criticizes the current squad's toughness compared with the Steelers and 49ers.
Last season the Cowboys posted a 7-9-1 record while allowing a league-high 30.1 points per game.

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Story summary

Emmitt Smith, a Dallas Cowboys legend, says the team's 30-year National Football Conference Championship Game drought stems from departing from foundational principles.
He calls for a passionate, unified approach to winning, echoing the early days under Jimmie Johnson and Jerry Jones.
Smith criticizes the current squad's toughness compared with the Steelers and 49ers.
Last season the Cowboys posted a 7-9-1 record while allowing a league-high 30.1 points per game.