Denzel Washington's recent statement sparked widespread attention online
In a surprising turn of events, Academy-winning actor Denzel Washington has publicly criticized Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for prioritizing money over winning, a move he argues has contributed to the Cowboys’ nearly 30-year Super Bowl drought and frustration among fans.
A longtime Cowboys fan since the 1960s, Washington expressed his displeasure during an appearance on ESPN’s First Take in August 2025. He called out Jones for focusing on profits rather than championships or fan interests.
The criticism is tied to ongoing team conflicts, especially related to star linebacker Micah Parsons, who was in a contract dispute and seeking a trade as negotiations with Jones stalled. Washington suggested Jones’s handling of Parsons’s situation was detrimental to the fans and franchise’s success.
Despite the frustration, Washington remains loyal to the Cowboys but is clearly unhappy with the team’s management under Jones. The criticism comes amid broader fan dissatisfaction with what many see as Jones’s mismanagement.
The Cowboys have not been to the Super Bowl since 1995 and have struggled to advance past early playoff rounds despite having top talent like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons. Washington emphasized that not all money is “good money,” criticizing Jones for the imbalance between financial success (franchise worth over $10 billion) and actual championships or playoff success.
Jones, known for enjoying media attention, has called the Cowboys a “soap opera 365 days a year,” indicating the ongoing nature of internal controversies. The team is currently plagued by infighting over contracts, with players like Parsons seeking better deals and fairer treatment.
Washington’s comments came ahead of the 2025 season, reflecting the broader fan dissatisfaction with Jones’s management style. The actor, who starred in films like Training Day, Fences, and Highest 2 Lowest (set for release on Aug 15), delivered a quote that went viral on social media: “What’s it say down the bottom of the movie [poster]: All money ain’t good money, Jerry.”
Despite the controversy, the Cowboys remain one of the most valuable franchises in all sports. Whether Washington’s criticism will lead to changes within the team remains to be seen. For now, fans and Cowboys supporters alike are left hoping for a return to the glory days, with championships and consistent playoff appearances.
- Denzel Washington, in an analysis of the Dallas Cowboys' sports-related issues, criticized owner Jerry Jones for prioritizing money over winning, a situation that has been a source of frustration for both fans and celebrities alike.
- Amidst the ongoing controversies surrounding the Cowboys, Academy-winning actor Denzel Washington, expressing concerns in entertainment circles, suggested that focus on financial success, as exemplified by the franchise's worth over $10 billion, shouldn't overshadow the pursuit of championships and fan interests.