When Troy Aikman looks back at his career, one name stands out above all others: Jimmy Johnson. The Hall of Fame quarterback took to social media this week to celebrate his former coach’s 82nd birthday, a simple gesture that captures the lasting bond between two men who transformed the Dallas Cowboys from laughingstock to champions.
Why Does Troy Aikman Still Honor Jimmy Johnson After All These Years?
Johnson last coached Aikman during a 34-13 victory over the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXVIII. However, in the three decades since, the two have remained close. Both spent time as analysts with Fox Sports, where Johnson retired in March.
As a coach/quarterback duo, Aikman and Johnson enjoyed two Super Bowl wins together. To celebrate the coach’s 82nd birthday, the Hall of Fame quarterback visited social media to wish his former coach a happy birthday.
“Happy Birthday, Jimmy.”
This simple message reflects a relationship that transcended the typical coach-player dynamic. The bond between some retired players and their coaches never diminishes. After sharing highs and lows on the field, the player, upon retirement, sees his coach differently. Initially, a mentorship builds over their chosen sport.
When the player takes off the cleats for the last time, some will see their coach as more of a family member. Remember, this person believed in them enough to start them and ride that success to championships.
How Did Aikman and Johnson Overcome Their Rocky Start?
Before Aikman and Johnson won two Super Bowls, the partnership did not start off rosy in Dallas. First, the new owner, Jerry Jones, installed Johnson and replaced legendary coach Tom Landry.
As reserved as Landry seemed, Johnson displayed the polar opposite, earning the reputation as a red-faced leader who would shout more than many felt he had to. Meanwhile, Aikman, fresh off a 20-4 career record at UCLA, looked accustomed to winning early and often.
During their first season together, the rookie quarterback and the coach endured a nightmare scenario. In 1989, the Cowboys finished 1-15. Aikman struggled to an 0-11 record.
The head coach enjoyed a lofty 52-9 mark at the University of Miami, including a national championship. While the Cowboys didn’t fare well that season, three of their young players would possess significant roles in their renaissance.
Aikman’s draft class also featured fullback Darryl Johnston and center Mark Stepnoski. The following drafts saw the team add running back Emmitt Smith and defensive tackle Russell Maryland. Wide receiver Michael Irvin was a holdover from the previous regime.
Now fully retired from coaching and broadcasting, Johnson can look back and enjoy all of his successes over his 82 years. First, he earned all Southwest Conference nods as a defensive lineman on two separate occasions.
He helped the University of Arkansas win the national championship in 1964. When Fox Sports surprised Johnson with his Hall of Fame announcement, his former quarterback shed more than a few tears.
Between the University of Miami and Dallas, he earned three championships and earned the respect of his peers, foes, and, most importantly, his players. In a sport dominated by coaching legends, Johnson could be the most underrated coach of his time.
