Jun 2, 2026, 9:59 PM CUT

Cowboys Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith Opens Up on Team’s Direction Crisis

Sept. 10, 2010 - Arlington, Texas, United States of America - NFL s all time leading rusher, Emmitt Smith, in the press conference prior to the start of the Super Bowl XLV Countdown - Live from Cowboys Stadium. - ZUMAq60

The Hall of Fame running back and franchise legend, Emmitt Smith, has weighed in on the Dallas Cowboys situation, offering a candid assessment of where the team stands and what it must do to move forward.

Smith, the NFL's all-time rusher, spent 13 seasons with the Cowboys (1990-2002). He keeps close tabs on the franchise and recently discussed Dak Prescott and Dallas' offensive side with Action Network.

"He (Dak Prescott) cannot win it all by himself. I think the system that you're seeing with Brian Schottenheimer has a balance," said Smith to Action Network. "It kind of has a feel for what the balance that we used to have back in my day... It's the right thing to do for Dak Prescott and our offensive team."

Dec 14, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) before a game against the Minnesota Vikings at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Smith praised Dak Prescott as the team's best addition since Tony Romo. He emphasized the importance of a balanced offensive approach instead of relying heavily on the passing game.

He pointed to the system of head coach Brian Schottenheimer being similar to the 1990s Cowboys team, when a strong running game and efficient QB play helped Dallas win championships.

He argues a balanced offense reduces pressure on Prescott while maximizing the roster's talents. It also improves Dallas' chances of sustaining drives and ending its nearly 30-year Super Bowl drought. They last won in 1996.

Smith not only shared about the team's direction going forward, but also discussed WR George Pickens and owner Jerry Jones.

Emmitt Smith Shares His Perspective on George Pickens

The Dallas Cowboys are working on their offense this season, as they haven't made the playoffs for the last two seasons. Currently, George Pickens is under the franchise tag.

"However, the question is, does Pickens feel like the Cowboys did not do them right this year, and have a feeling that they will upgrade him next year, and if he doesn't feel like they will, I think he'll be gone," said Smith to Action Network.

While Dallas could choose to extend the talented receiver, if Pickens performs at a high level, Smith believes Pickens will also analyze the franchise, if it values him and is willing to reward him accordingly.

However, Smith is optimistic about the future of the Cowboys, especially with Prescott, Pickens, and WR CeeDee Lamb leading the offense.

What are your views on Dallas' offensive side? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Rudra Dubey