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Wednesday, March 7
Updated: March 8, 4:10 PM ET
 
Mixed reviews on Jones' decision

ESPN.com

There was a mixed reaction to the news that Troy Aikman was waived on Wednesday. Some were completely outraged, but others understood the business decision of owner Jerry Jones. There were a few interesting suggestions as to Aikman's successor, but almost all users agreed that Aikman should retire immediately instead of finding another NFL club. Here's an edited sample of what you had to say.

Hall of Famer deserved better
This is a sad day for Cowboys fans. Why Jerry and Troy couldn't agree on an incentive-based contract for 2001, I'll never know. This may be selfish, but I truly hope Troy retires now. I can't stand the thought of seeing him in another uniform. Whether Troy plays for another team or not, he will always be a Cowboy- nothing less, and nothing more. Troy, we will miss you!!!!
P.K.
Omaha, NE

I have been a Cowboys fan all of my life and I've supported some of their, "not so smart moves", but I can't support this one. This shows that Jerry Jones has no loyalty to a man who won him three Super Bowl rings. Aikman is a professional and he deserved better from a team that he led for so many years. This is ridiculous.
Ryan Lucas
Martins Ferry, Ohio

I hate to see Troy Aikman waived, especially after what all he has done for the Cowboys … He never asked to leave to go to a better team when the Cowboys were going through their 1-15 season and the other bad seasons. In which time he took a beating due to the terrible offensive line and overall bad team.
Mike Greenwell
Katy, Texas

Tough, but correct decision
I think getting rid of Troy is a wise move for the Cowboys. It's obvious they need to do some serious rebuilding of an aged team, plus the risks of losing him during the season would only cause distractions. San Diego would be a good choice for Aikman as a backup QB behind Doug Flutie. He has to realize that if he wants to continue to play the sport he loves, that he must do it as a backup.
Kyle
Stanford, Calif.

Unfortunately, this is the best move for the Cowboys at this time. I think that it would also be wise for the Cowboys to cut ties with a couple other high priced talents like Erik Williams and Emmitt Smith.
James Tuggey
Frisco, Texas

I think the choice to cut Troy Aikman was the right decision, but a very difficult one for Mr. Jones to say the least. I am a diehard Redskins fan and despise the boys from Dallas, but have always respected Troy Aikman as a player. His professionalism on and off the field make him (still) an asset to the NFL. Hey Troy, we'd love to have you in Washington!
Michael Kerdock
Silverdale, Wash.

This is one of the greatest moves Jones has made since Super Bowl XXVIII. As much as the Cowboys and fans alike adore what Aikman has done and accomplished, it's his time to go and the team's time to rebuild. Getting it over this year and not waiting 'til next is important. The Cowboys don't have a first round pick this year, so this will be a great year to go 0-16.
Gary Jenkins
Lufkin, Texas

Please hang 'em up, Troy
I think Aikman should have retired. Seeing a horrible injury happen to him would be far worse than seeing him retire. Cunningham and Wright are definitely not answers either, for now or the future. Dallas is in trouble, and I wish Jerry Jones the best of luck – because he will need it.
Brent Raschke
Lockhart, Texas

There comes a point in every athlete's career when one must assess the physical rigors of the game, and determine whether the price is worth the product. Physically, Troy is sausage. Mentally, he can't comprehend that physically he is sausage. For those who feel it is unfair, understand that football is a business. A business that entertains millions, but a business nonetheless.
Rene Perez
Nampa, Idaho

This sickens me. I hope that he chooses to retire and pursue a career in the booth. He'll look wrong wearing a different team's uniform. Maybe Joe Montana can talk some sense into him, and keep him from making the same mistake.
Stephen Stockinger
Boise, Idaho

I was really hoping that Aikman would simply retire with some dignity. Aikman is a Hall of Fame quarterback with his Super Bowl wins and performances in those games, but he has taken one too many hits. I hope if he does re-sign, he winds up with a team with a good offensive line so he doesn't wind up with permanent brain damage.
Justin
Irving, Texas

And the new QB should be?
I can understand the Cowboys doing what they did. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to see Aikman continue playing for us, but I understand the move from a financial point, too. I personally think Clint Stoerner and Anthony Wright are going to make a great 1-2 punch!
JD Posey
Sherman Oaks, Calif.

Aikman had his time in the spotlight. I feel that they should set out to sign a new QB. That, in my opinion, should be Tim Couch. He has great potential, but only with a team that has been there.
Jason Ligon
Henderson, Ky.

Very good move, start looking to the future! Tony Banks would be o.k., but I think Ty Detmer would be a perfect fit. Then re-sign Randall Cunningham to be the backup. Whoever they sign has to have a heck of an arm, because of the wide receivers they have. Let's go deep once again!!!!!
Nate Lindsey
Austin, Texas




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Cowboys past, present sad to see Aikman's departure

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End of an era in Dallas: Cowboys waive Aikman


AUDIO/VIDEO
 Capped out
Troy Aikman talks about being a salary cap casualty.
wav: 253 k | Listen

 Tough call
Jerry Jones discusses the factors involved with the Cowboys decision.
wav: 231 k | Listen

 End of an era
What's next for Troy Aikman and the Cowboys? ESPN.com's John Clayton offers possible answers.
wav: 1139 k | Listen

 Cowboys news conference
Jerry Jones announces that Troy Aikman has been waived by the Cowboys.


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