Aikman: My Comments Forced Jones to Field Tough Questions

Troy Aikman told listeners on Dallas' The Ticket sports radio that he placed Cowboys owner Jerry Jones in a "really unfair spot" after expressing public interest in a front office role. The comments emerged as uncertainty surrounding Aikman's broadcasting career intensified over the past several weeks. Aikman stated his goal was to clarify his position regarding a potential return to the team.

The discussion took place before the Monday Night Football game between the Eagles and the Cowboys in Philadelphia. Aikman called the game alongside Joe Buck for ESPN. He said he brought up the topic with Jones because he felt he had backed the owner into a corner. "He didn't ask for it," Aikman said. "And so, we’re clear on that." Aikman noted that Jones was complimentary about a potential future role but understood that specific conversations were not happening right now.

The situation stems from a reported argument between Aikman and Buck. ESPN recently granted Buck a large contract extension but showed little interest in extending Aikman's deal. The two have worked as a broadcasting team for 25 years, making them the longest-running booth in NFL history. Aikman said he was answering a question on air when the topic arose, which forced Jones to respond to speculation about Aikman's status.

"I think it’s really unfair to Jerry that he then has to answer these questions," Aikman said. He noted that questions asking if the team would bring Aikman back or have a role for him left Jones with no easy answer. Aikman emphasized that he did not want the owner to be caught in the middle of the speculation.

Jones addressed the rumors during his weekly appearance on 105.3 The Fan earlier this week. He said the answer is not necessarily that the team will do anything more direct with Aikman at this time. However, he said owners should not rule out a reunion. "It is very possible," Jones said. He acknowledged the history between the two, noting that he spent his first pick as owner on Aikman.

The next step involves waiting for further developments in the broadcasting negotiations. Aikman continues to call games for ESPN while Jones manages the Cowboys' front office. Both men have spoken about the situation in interviews within the last 48 hours.