Ed Too Tall Jones entered national consciousness as a high-flying NFL defensive end who combined rare size with speed for his era. Understanding how tall was Ed Too Tall Jones requires looking at both measured data and the larger than life reputation that grew around him during the 1970s and 1980s.
His nickname and playing style made him an icon of vertical dominance, drawing constant media attention to his frame. This overview breaks down his exact height, playing career impact, and how he compares to modern athletes.
| Category | Measure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Reported Height | 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) | Listed height during Dallas Cowboys playing years |
| Playing Weight | 255 lb (116 kg) | Official NFL weight at peak |
| Position | Defensive End | Rush specialist in 4–3 defense |
| Teams | Dallas Cowboys | Played 1974–1984, key years 1974–1983 |
| Height Rank Among NFL DE | Top 1% historically | Exceptional size for 1970s pass rush role |
Physical Profile And Measurements
Official records from the Dallas Cowboys and NFL Combine indicate that Ed Too Tall Jones stood 6 ft 8 in tall on the field. This measurement was consistently listed in media guides and yearbooks throughout his career.
At 255 pounds, his frame allowed him to keep momentum while still possessing the agility to drop into coverage and contest passes in the flat. Scouts repeatedly emphasized how rare it was to find a man of his height who could move so quickly off the edge.
Early Life And Entry Into Professional Sports
Before reaching the NFL, Jones played college football at Tennessee State, where his size and athleticism began to attract major league attention. Scouts noted that his long levers and stride pattern created a natural advantage in rushing the quarterback.
His transition from college standout to Cowboys draft pick reinforced the perception that exceptional vertical reach could be a defining trait in professional football. Teams prepared special game plans to account for his ability to collapse pockets from the edge.
Career Highlights With The Dallas Cowboys
During his time with the Cowboys, Ed Too Tall Jones became one of the most feared defensive ends in the league. He recorded multiple sacks in a single season and played a critical role in holding the line against powerful running games.
Defensive schemes often built contain edges around his ability to set the edge and pursue downhill. His presence on the field shifted offensive blocking assignments and forced quarterbacks to make hurried throws when he beat his blocker.
Legacy And Impact On The Game
Jones helped define the modern prototypical big, athletic edge rusher who could collapse pockets without sacrificing speed in coverage. Teams began valuing specialized size-plus-movement profiles more heavily when drafting defensive ends.
His influence extended beyond statistics, inspiring later generations of pass rushers who modeled their physical tools and positioning after his combination of length and power. Media coverage consistently highlighted how he redefined expectations for size at his position.
Key Takeaways
- Officially listed at 6 ft 8 in, making him one of the tallest edge rushers of his generation
- Combined length with 255 lb playing weight to generate powerful yet fluid pass-rush moves
- Played his entire impactful career with the Dallas Cowboys from 1974 through 1984
- Redefined size expectations at defensive end and influenced modern prototypical rusher builds
FAQ
Reader questions
How tall was Ed Too Tall Jones according to official NFL records?
6 ft 8 in (2.03 m), listed consistently across team media guides and scouting reports during his playing years.
Did his height give him an advantage in coverage situations?
Yes, his long arms and stride helped him contest passes, disrupt timing routes, and recover quickly to maintain outside leverage.
How did his size compare to other edge rushers of the 1970s and 1980s?
He was noticeably larger than most peers, with only a handful of defensive ends matching or exceeding his listed height during that era.
What is his nickname origin related to his height?
The nickname "Too Tall" directly reflects his exceptional height, emphasizing that he stood out even among professional football players known for size.