In an unexpected announcement, Dallas Cowboys team owner and general manager Jerry Jones revealed during a press conference on Fox's NFL pregame show that former coach Jimmy Johnson will be inducted into the team's prestigious Ring of Honor. The long-awaited recognition will take place on December 30, 2023, marking a significant milestone for Johnson and the franchise.

Jerry Jones praised Johnson for his remarkable work ethic, inspirational leadership, and deep football knowledge before delivering the exciting news. Despite a slip of the tongue when mentioning the year, Jones confirmed that Johnson's induction will occur in 2023, not 1923 as initially stated.

The decision to honor Johnson with a place in the Ring of Honor holds special significance for Cowboys fans, as well as NFL enthusiasts who have closely followed the back-and-forth between Johnson and Jones over the years. Johnson's tenure with the Cowboys ended controversially after he guided the team to consecutive Super Bowl victories, only to be replaced by head coach Barry Switzer, who led the Cowboys to another championship just two years later.

Jones admitted that their relationship became strained and acknowledged the advice of legendary coach Bill Walsh, who highlighted the need for them to mend the rift. Fortunately, the two have since rebuilt their friendship, paving the way for Johnson's well-deserved inclusion in the Ring of Honor.

While Johnson's coaching prowess is best remembered for the Super Bowl titles he brought to Dallas, his impact extended far beyond those accomplishments. When he took over as the Cowboys' coach in 1989, the team had finished last, with a dismal 1-15 record. However, within two years under Johnson's guidance, they achieved a winning record and went on to win two Super Bowls.

The championship teams were led by a legendary trio consisting of quarterback Troy Aikman, receiver Michael Irvin, and running back Emmitt Smith, all of whom were inducted into the Ring of Honor in 2005. Now, Johnson will join their ranks as the 24th member and the second coach to receive this prestigious honor.

The only other coach in the Cowboys' Ring of Honor is Tom Landry, who served as the head coach from 1960 to 1988. Landry led the team to two Super Bowl victories and an impressive seven more conference championship berths during his tenure.

Since the 1995 season, the Cowboys have been unable to secure another Super Bowl appearance, let alone a conference championship. However, with the induction of Jimmy Johnson into the Ring of Honor, fans hope that this recognition will serve as a catalyst for future success and a return to the team's glory days.

As the countdown begins to December 30, 2023, the anticipation grows for the long-awaited moment when Jimmy Johnson will take his rightful place in the Dallas Cowboys' Ring of Honor.