IRVING, Texas — Jerry Jones made it clear, both in action and words: Getting rid of Terrell Owens means a fresh start for the Cowboys.
Owens was released Thursday, ending a three-year run that produced as many big headlines as big plays. Many of those headlines were about ego and attitude, and Jones has decided enough is enough. He wants the focus on winning, something the Cowboys haven’t done in the playoffs since 1996.
“In the aftermath of the season, we talked about change,” Jones said. “Some of what is changing involves the process, and some of it involves people. This is a decision that was made based upon consideration for an entire team. We will move on now with a new team — a new attitude — and into a new stadium. The evaluation process and the prospect for change will continue at every level of the organization.”
The change also included the release of strong safety Roy Williams. Despite his reputation as a hard hitter, teams never hesitated throwing his way in recent years because he struggled in coverage in the 3-4 defense. After Owens, Williams likely was the second divisive figure among Cowboys fans — especially after Dallas already got rid of Adam “Pacman” Jones and Tank Johnson.
Owens released a statement on his website thanking Jones, coach Wade Phillips and the organization “for the opportunity to be a member of the team for the past three years.”
“A big thanks to the fans — you’ve been awesome! I look forward to the upcoming season and continuing to play in the NFL,” Owens added.
Owens caught more touchdown passes (38) than any other NFL receiver over the past three years, but the Cowboys went 0-for-2 in the playoffs and didn’t even make it this past season.
Cutting Owens and Williams will cost Dallas about $14 million against the salary cap. Last season, Owens caught 69 passes for 1,052 yards with 10 touchdowns. His 69 catches were his fewest for a full season since 1999.
Dallas already has a replacement as the top receiver in Roy Williams, who was acquired from Detroit midway through last season.
