Did Dallas Make the Right Choice? Analyzing the Cowboys’ Decision to Pick Deion Sanders Over Ben Johnson
In the world of professional football, particularly in the NFL, the decision of which player to pick in the draft or through free agency can have far-reaching consequences. For the Dallas Cowboys, a franchise with a rich history and passionate fanbase, every personnel move is magnified under the microscope. When the Cowboys made the decision to pursue Deion Sanders rather than Ben Johnson, many were quick to weigh in on the move. A Cowboys coach survey revealed that Deion Sanders was one of the top picks for the team, alongside Ben Johnson. But was this the right decision? Did Dallas make the best choice?
The Context of the Decision
Before diving into the specifics of Deion Sanders and Ben Johnson, it’s important to understand the context behind the Cowboys’ decision. The team was facing significant challenges in terms of roster composition and needed to make impactful additions to enhance their competitiveness. The Cowboys had a great deal of talent already in place, but their defense and secondary, in particular, were areas that could use an upgrade. The franchise was looking for a transformative player—someone who could elevate the team’s defense and provide leadership.
Deion Sanders: A Game-Changer for Dallas
Deion Sanders, often referred to as “Prime Time,” is widely regarded as one of the most electrifying players in NFL history. His arrival in Dallas marked the beginning of a new era for the Cowboys, particularly on defense. Sanders was not only a lockdown cornerback, but he also brought with him the ability to change the course of a game with a single play. His skills as a cornerback were unparalleled; he could shadow the best wide receivers in the league and shut down passing attacks.
One of the biggest selling points of Sanders was his ability to dominate the game in multiple phases. As a return specialist, Sanders posed a constant threat to opposing teams, giving the Cowboys an added dimension on special teams. His speed, agility, and playmaking ability were unmatched, and his presence on the field immediately made the Cowboys’ defense more formidable.
Furthermore, Sanders was a vocal leader who brought a sense of confidence and swagger to the Cowboys. His competitive fire and larger-than-life personality made him a natural fit in Dallas, where the franchise has long been associated with high expectations and a championship-or-bust mentality. Beyond his athletic prowess, Sanders’ confidence helped energize the Cowboys’ locker room, providing a boost of morale for the entire team.
Sanders was also an excellent communicator and strategist, often working closely with the defensive coordinator to ensure the team was always one step ahead of their opponents. His ability to read quarterbacks and anticipate plays gave the Cowboys a distinct edge in their defensive game planning.
When the Cowboys signed Deion Sanders in 1995, it was clear that they were bringing in a player who could turn the tide for their defense and lead them to success. His impact was immediate, and Sanders was instrumental in the Cowboys’ Super Bowl XXX victory, which cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever suit up for the franchise.
Ben Johnson: A Different Kind of Threat
On the other hand, Ben Johnson, who was also considered one of the top picks in the coach survey, represents a different kind of player. While Sanders was known for his explosive, game-changing ability, Johnson was a more traditional player, though no less impactful in his own right. Johnson was a highly skilled and dynamic wide receiver known for his route-running precision and ability to make plays in critical moments.
Ben Johnson’s versatility made him a standout. He was an exceptional route runner, capable of creating separation from defenders with his quickness and agility. He had reliable hands, often coming up with big catches in clutch situations. Johnson’s ability to stretch the field vertically and open up the offense was an asset that many teams coveted, especially a team like Dallas that needed to complement its strong running game with a dangerous aerial attack.
However, Johnson’s skill set was not one of flash and spectacle in the same way as Sanders. Instead, his strength lay in his consistency, ability to contribute on various routes, and intelligence on the field. He was a steady presence who could operate in different areas of the offense, making him a valuable piece for any team. While he didn’t have the same star power or headline-making plays as Sanders, Johnson’s quiet and effective play would certainly have provided solid support to the Cowboys’ offensive unit.
The Cowboys’ Need for a Game-Changer on Defense
When we assess the Cowboys’ choice to pursue Deion Sanders over Ben Johnson, it’s crucial to remember the team’s needs at the time. Dallas had one of the league’s top offenses, led by quarterback Troy Aikman and running back Emmitt Smith. The team’s defense, however, was more of a work-in-progress. While Dallas boasted a solid front seven, the secondary had room for improvement.
The Cowboys needed a player who could alter the game on defense, someone who could shut down top-tier wide receivers and provide a playmaking ability that would force turnovers. Deion Sanders fit this need perfectly. His impact on the defense was immediate and undeniable. His presence allowed the Cowboys to focus on improving other areas of the team, knowing they had a shutdown corner in Sanders.
In contrast, Ben Johnson would have certainly helped the Cowboys’ offense, but it wasn’t as clear-cut that the team needed another wide receiver. With weapons like Michael Irvin already in place, the Cowboys’ priority was more on strengthening the defense to compete with high-powered offenses in the NFC, such as those led by Brett Favre and Steve Young. Johnson, though a talented wide receiver, might not have addressed the team’s most pressing need in the same way that Sanders did.
The Outcome: Super Bowl Victory
The ultimate test of any major team decision is the outcome. In 1995, after signing Deion Sanders, the Dallas Cowboys went on to win Super Bowl XXX. Sanders’ contribution was instrumental in securing that victory, both with his shutdown corner skills and his ability to make critical plays in big moments. His leadership and performance on the field played a significant role in ensuring that the Cowboys’ defense was one of the league’s most formidable units.
On the other hand, Ben Johnson, though a talented player, may not have had the same immediate impact on the Cowboys’ roster that Sanders did. While Johnson’s presence could have bolstered the offense, the team’s defense was the key to their success in the mid-1990s. The Cowboys’ decision to invest in Sanders, who could elevate their defense and provide leadership, proved to be the right choice in hindsight.
