Former six-time NFL Pro Bowl defensive tackle Gerald McCoy delivered a blunt message to Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones on Thursday’s edition of First Take, criticizing the longtime executive over the team’s disappointing start to the 2026 season.
“We don’t care,” McCoy said in response to Jones’ comments suggesting that Dallas could be active ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
“We don’t care, Jerry!” @Geraldini93 with some strong words towards the Cowboys’ owner and GM 😳 https://t.co/LyZkHq76co
— First Take (@FirstTake) October 22, 2026
McCoy made it clear that he was less interested in what Jones had to say about potential roster moves and more concerned about the Cowboys’ inability to turn their talent into consistent results. With Dallas sitting at 2-4 through six weeks, the former defensive lineman questioned the team’s direction despite its considerable talent on the field.
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McCoy challenges Jones over Cowboys’ slow start
McCoy spent 10 seasons in the NFL, including nine with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and one with the Carolina Panthers in 2019. During his career, he earned six Pro Bowl selections and established himself as one of the league’s prominent defensive tackles.
His criticism comes as the Cowboys face growing pressure to improve their performances. Despite entering the season with expectations, Dallas has struggled to build momentum, leaving questions about whether changes to the roster could help turn things around.
Jones, who purchased the Cowboys in 1989, currently serves as the franchise’s owner, president and general manager. The 84-year-old acknowledged his frustration with the team’s 2-4 record but indicated that he remains open to exploring opportunities to strengthen the roster.
“I’ll be real clear, I could see being active at the trade deadline if it was something that could help the team this year,” Jones said when discussing the possibility of making moves.
However, Jones also ruled out the prospect of selling players at the deadline, responding with a firm “No” when asked whether the team would consider that approach.
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Cowboys face crucial division showdown
Despite their losing record, the Cowboys remain tied for second place in the NFC East, keeping their hopes of competing in the division alive.
Dallas will face the Philadelphia Eagles, who also enter Week 7 with a 2-4 record, on Monday Night Football. The divisional matchup presents an opportunity for both teams to improve their standing and regain some momentum.
With the trade deadline approaching, Jones’ willingness to pursue upgrades could become a major storyline. However, as McCoy’s comments highlight, the Cowboys must demonstrate progress on the field if they hope to silence critics and turn their season around.
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