Denzel Washington Critiques Jerry Jones Over Contract Dispute
Frustration among Dallas Cowboys fans is palpable, and actor Denzel Washington is no exception. During an appearance on ESPN's First Take, Washington, 70, voiced his discontent with team owner Jerry Jones, 82, amid ongoing contract negotiations with linebacker Micah Parsons.
"He’s making it hard," Washington remarked, revealing his conflicted loyalty. "Not to be a fan, because I’m still a Cowboys fan. I’m still going to have the star on the side of the hat. But he ain’t thinking about us. He’s thinking about his pocket." The tension between Jones and Parsons, 26, has left the four-time Pro Bowler absent from practice as both sides struggle to reach an agreement.
Washington's passion for the Cowboys is evident. "I love the Cowboys. I really love them. This is why I feel the way I feel," he stated, underscoring his deep-rooted connection to the team. Joined by director Spike Lee on the show, Washington's frustrations remained at the forefront even when the conversation shifted to their upcoming film, Highest 2 Lowest.
As host Stephen A. Smith attempted to pivot to movie discussions, Washington seized the moment to reiterate his message. "What does it say down at the bottom of the movie [poster]? What does it say on the one sheet? 'All money ain’t good money,' Jerry!" Lee, clad in New York Knicks attire, encouraged Washington to repeat his sentiment.
"All money ain’t good money, Jerry!" Washington declared emphatically, reinforcing his stance on the matter.
Reflecting on his fandom, Washington shared that his allegiance to the Cowboys traces back to his youth football days in Mount Vernon. "I grew up in Mount Vernon, uptown," he explained. "The Red Raiders. We were the Red Raiders in the ‘60s. I was the running back and we used the shift. Like the Cowboys. So I said, 'Oh, the Cowboys play like us.' I’ve been a Cowboys fan since the ‘60s."
The Cowboys are set to kick off their 2025 regular season on September 4 against the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, with no contract extension for Parsons currently in sight.
