Why the Cowboys Release of Terrell Owens Will Hurt the Dallas Community
 Photos by Steed Media Service |
On
March 5, 2009, the Dallas Cowboys released Terrell Owens after three
seasons. Never one to hide his feelings, Owens was often criticized for
his emotional outbursts. However, parting ways with Owens could haunt
the Cowboys for years to come.
In
December 2008, Owens appeared to be at peace. The All-Pro wide receiver
celebrated his 35th birthday by throwing a charity event at the Glass
Cactus in Dallas. Celebrities such as Common, Solange Knowles, and Jill
Marie Jones atteneded. But more importantly, 20 members of the Dallas
Cowboys and coach Wade Phillips were also on hand to support Owens as
he helped raise money for 81 needy families in the Dallas area.
“We will adopt 81 families for the 2009 year so that we can help them
with necessities such as clothes for their kids, help with utility
bills, computers, and college application fees,” Owens said prior to
the event. “God has blessed me to play a game that I love for 13 years.
I’m thankful to have an opportunity to give back to those who need
help. To whom much is given, much is required.”
Owens has dedicated himself to being one of the best receivers in the
NFL while working just as hard at philanthropy. Dallas, the ninth
largest city in the nation, benefited from Owens’ work with families in
need, Alzheimer patients, HIV/AIDS, and his contributions to the
Make-A-Wish Foundation. At this moment, there isn’t a player on the
Cowboys’ roster who has given back as much as Owens.
On the field, Owens will have to learn how to control his emotions if
wants to get another chance at winning a Super Bowl title. But off the
field, Owens is more than a champion. –amir shaw
