He’s one of the greatest Dallas Cowboys in history. He’s one of the greatest tight ends to ever play the game. He’s a future Hall of Famer. But his career is at a complicated spot right now. After coming back from retirement, Jason Witten is set to become a free agent. Last season was disappointing for the Cowboys, but also for their tight end. So much that his starting position was questioned by many fans and analysts around the world as the season went on.
When Witten’s return was announced last year, his snap count was one of the main topics of discussion. Would he get the starting gig? Or would he split snaps with younger players like talented Blake Jarwin, of whom we don’t feel like we’ve seen enough of?
Regardless of what was the original plan, Witten was in for 75% of the offensive snaps in 2019. In that playing time, he didn’t do enough for fans to feel confident about him starting at tight end in 2020 with 38 years of age.
By now, Witten has made it clear we want to play another year. Some have even speculated about a reunion with Jason Garrett with the New York Giants. Watching Witten wear other colors would be painful for Cowboys but according to reports, he’s willing to play elsewhere if there isn’t a place for him in Dallas.
Jerry Jones has taken an opportunity to step in the discussion by saying he hopes #82 can play with the Cowboys once again.
As a young fan myself, I can tell you Jason Witten is my favorite player ever and I will always get excited when Witten walks out to the field. But I can also tell you this: he shouldn’t start for Dallas in 2020. His speed isn’t there and last season, it felt like he should be on the bench watching Jarwin play.
However, I could be on board if the Cowboys seriously give him a backup role. I’m talking about 20-25% of the offensive snaps, not half. His hands are still good and he’s a reliable player who will guarantee you availability.
It’s interesting to hear Jerry Jones speak out on his thoughts about a potential Witten return. However, I’m more intrigued by how does Mike McCarthy’s staff feel about the team’s legend? Do they feel he represents enough to keep him around or do they move on from the old times and look forward to other options at tight end?
