The Dallas Cowboys, known as one of North America’s top sports teams, sometimes feel more like a multimedia show than just a football team. Along with their games, they have cheerleaders, a huge stadium, and a lot of merchandise.
However, this focus on entertainment seems to be affecting their long-term success on the field. In a recent article by Kalyn Kahler from ESPN, several former Cowboys criticized one specific practice: allowing fans to tour their facilities.
“You have real facilities here,” said Dante Fowler, a linebacker for the Washington Commanders, comparing his new team to his time with Dallas. “You might not see tourists coming around, but it keeps the main thing the main thing.”
Jayron Kearse, a free-agent safety and former Cowboy, added, “You’re on your way to eat lunch and running into tours. You’re heading to meetings and seeing tours. We’re here for football; we need to focus whether we’re in the weight room or in meetings, where 30 to 35 people walk by looking in.”
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones strongly defended the tours, saying, “Not one time have I heard any complaints about them, but the most important thing is it wouldn’t make any difference. Period. Because they’re swimming against the stream.”
Currently, the Cowboys have a record of 3-3 this season, placing them third in the NFC East and a game and a half behind the leading Commanders.
