Aikman Says Cowboys Talk Put Jerry Jones in a Difficult Spot

On October 30, Troy Aikman said he felt he had placed Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones in an awkward position by speaking publicly about the possibility of returning to the team in a front-office role. Aikman made the remarks on Dallas sports radio after being asked about his future in broadcasting and a possible Cowboys reunion.

Aikman said he had answered questions honestly, but that Jones then faced questions about whether he would give the former quarterback a role. The two briefly discussed the matter before Aikman called the Eagles-Cowboys game in Philadelphia for ESPN, with Joe Buck. Aikman said Jones understood his concern and had been complimentary, while making clear they were not discussing a job at that time.

Jones has said he would not rule out bringing Aikman back, describing it as a possibility rather than an immediate plan. Aikman was the first player Jones selected after becoming the Cowboys’ owner. Aikman’s broadcasting future has drawn attention since ESPN announced a major contract extension for Buck; the pair have worked together for 25 years, the longest-running NFL broadcast booth partnership.

Aikman has also had a front-office consulting role with the Miami Dolphins this year. NFL reporter Ed Werder has questioned whether Aikman and Jones would work well together in Dallas, arguing that their differing approaches could make a partnership difficult. The Cowboys have not begun discussions with Aikman about a role.