Jun 9, 2026, 2:43 PM CUT
Jerry Jones’ Biggest Draft Regret Still Shapes Cowboys Decisions Today

INGLEWOOD, CA - AUGUST 11: Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones talks to media before the NFL, American Football Herren, USA preseason game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Los Angeles Rams on August 11, 2024, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA.Photo by Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire NFL: AUG 11 Preseason Cowboys at Rams EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon240811005
INGLEWOOD, CA - AUGUST 11: Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones talks to media before the NFL, American Football Herren, USA preseason game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Los Angeles Rams on August 11, 2024, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA.Photo by Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire NFL: AUG 11 Preseason Cowboys at Rams EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon240811005
Micah Parsons was recently a guest on Jay Mohr's podcast. Over there, he touched on many untold stories from his life. Naturally, he also talked about his former club and employers, and a draft pick decision from 1998 that would go on to be Jerry Jones' biggest regret.
"He's like I was like, 'You know, why didn't you draft Randy Moss?" said Parsons, recounting that incident. "He was like, "Micah, I was dealing with so much stuff with Michael Irving at the time, and I was just so scared because everything that was coming out about Randy before the draft."
With the eighth overall pick, Dallas opted for defensive end Greg Ellis, passing on future Hall of Fame receiver Randy Moss, who ultimately slid to No. 21 and was selected by the Minnesota Vikings.
"I couldn't have two of them," Jones further told Parsons as he recollected the story. "He was like, "But that's one of my biggest regrets ever." And ever since then, he's never cared about that stuff."

New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss catches a late 1st half TD pass from New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady to go up 14-7 as New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis defends on Sept. 19, 2010 in East Rutherford, N. J. 20590
New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss catches a late 1st half TD pass from New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady to go up 14-7 as New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis defends on Sept. 19, 2010 in East Rutherford, N. J. 20590
Moss was coming out after a great season with Marshall. He registered 90 receptions with a league high 1,647 yards and 25 touchdowns. Obviously, any team would look forward to adding him.
However, Jerry couldn't take the risk. He was dealing with off‑field controversies surrounding star WR Michael Irvin.
Moss, too, came with his own 'baggage.' His character concerns and off‑field rumors would make things difficult for Jones, hence he backtracked.
Managing two high‑profile receivers with reputational issues simultaneously would have become a problem for Jones. It was a big opportunity missed, Jones understands, as Moss would end up having a HOF career.
Parson said that since then, Jones changed his draft philosophy. He did not allow off-field narrative decisions to influence his decisions anymore. This is exactly why he is not shy about getting a very talented individual on board despite his past issues.
Jerry Jones Wants Max Crossby In The Dallas Roster
Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys are now targeting Max Crossby. The Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher is on Jones radar.
Crossby's career has seen him make 278 solo tackles and 133 tackles for loss. Last season, he made 45, solos, and is one of the most talked-about players in the sport.
Yet early in his career, he too faced problems with his off-court conduct.
His a****** addiction reached such a level that he had to admit himself to rehabilitation. This happened back in 2020, but now he is better than ever.
Jones has always been vocal about chasing star talent, and Crossby fits the description perfectly.
The Cowboys have already proven pass rushers in their squad, but Crossby brings in his elite edge presence. ESPN insider Dan Graziano thinks that is very much a possibility.
"If a team such as the Cowboys, Bills, Bears, or Patriots finds itself in contention and in need of an impact pass rusher, things could get interesting here again," said Graziano.
Whether Crossby gives Dallas his nod or not is not yet known. However, as we inch closer to the season, we will get a clear picture.
You can read more at the Dallas Cowboys Community!
Written by

Sourav Ganguly
Edited by

Aadesh Dhote