Ed Too Tall Jones Football Cards: A Collector's Guide

What's up, football card collectors and fans! Today, we're diving deep into the exciting world of collecting trading cards, focusing on a true legend of the game: Ed "Too Tall" Jones. If you're looking to add some serious muscle and history to your collection, Jones' cards are an absolute must-have. We're talking about a player who wasn't just big; he was a force on the defensive line for the Dallas Cowboys during their glory days. His imposing stature and incredible talent made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing offenses. So, grab your magnifying glass and your favorite binder, because we're about to explore why Ed Too Tall Jones football cards are so sought after and what makes them a fantastic investment for any serious collector.

The Legacy of Ed "Too Tall" Jones

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the cards themselves, let's take a moment to appreciate the man, the myth, the legend: Ed "Too Tall" Jones. Standing at an incredible 6'9", he earned his nickname for a reason! Jones played defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys from 1974 to 1989, with a brief stint in boxing in the late 70s before returning to the gridiron. He was an integral part of the Cowboys' "Doomsday Defense," a unit that struck fear into the hearts of quarterbacks and running backs across the league. His career stats speak for themselves: three Pro Bowl selections, two First-Team All-Pro nods, and a Super Bowl championship (Super Bowl XII). He was a dominant pass rusher, known for his incredible strength, speed, and surprisingly agile movements for a man of his size. His presence on the field was monumental, and it's this larger-than-life persona that translates directly into the desirability of his football cards. When you hold an Ed Too Tall Jones card, you're not just holding a piece of cardboard; you're holding a tangible piece of NFL history, representing an era of dominant defense and iconic players. His impact on the game extended beyond his stats; he was a personality, a showman, and a true warrior. This combination of athletic prowess and captivating presence is exactly what drives collectors wild for his memorabilia, especially his trading cards.

Early Years and Rise to Stardom

Ed "Too Tall" Jones wasn't always destined for NFL superstardom. Born and raised in Jackson, Tennessee, his journey to becoming one of football's most recognizable defensive linemen is a testament to his hard work and natural talent. He played college football at Tennessee State University, where his towering frame and raw athletic ability quickly made him stand out. Even in college, his potential was immense, and scouts knew they had found something special. The Dallas Cowboys, always on the lookout for game-changing talent, drafted him with the 11th overall pick in the 1974 NFL Draft. It didn't take long for Jones to make his mark. He became a cornerstone of the Cowboys' ferocious "Doomsday Defense," playing alongside other legends like Randy White and Harvey Martin. His rookie season was impressive, and he quickly established himself as a premier defensive end in the league. The 1970s were a golden era for the Cowboys, and Jones was a huge part of their success, contributing to their Super Bowl XII victory. His unique combination of size, strength, and surprisingly quick footwork made him a matchup nightmare for offensive tackles. Opposing teams had to game-plan specifically for him, often double-teaming him to try and contain his pass-rushing ability. This respect from opponents only solidified his status as one of the game's elite. His dominance wasn't just about brute force; he possessed a keen understanding of the game and the athleticism to execute complex defensive schemes. This blend of physical gifts and football IQ made him truly exceptional, and his cards from this era are particularly coveted by collectors who appreciate his peak performance years.

The Appeal of Ed Too Tall Jones Football Cards

So, why are collectors scrambling to get their hands on Ed "Too Tall" Jones football cards? It boils down to a few key factors: iconic status, key career moments, and scarcity. First and foremost, "Too Tall" is an absolute legend. He's one of those players whose name is immediately recognizable, even to casual football fans. His imposing physique and memorable nickname make him incredibly marketable, and this translates directly into the demand for his cards. When you think of dominant defensive linemen, especially from the 70s and 80s, Ed "Too Tall" Jones is right there at the top of the list. His cards capture a piece of that era's football history, a time when players were larger than life and defenses often dictated the outcome of games. Secondly, his cards often commemorate significant achievements. Think about cards featuring him in his iconic Cowboys uniform, perhaps during a Pro Bowl season or even celebrating that Super Bowl XII win. These moments are etched in NFL history, and owning a card that represents them is incredibly special for fans and collectors alike. Finally, and crucially for collectors, rarity plays a huge role. While "Too Tall" had cards issued throughout his career, many of the older, more desirable ones are not easy to come by, especially in top condition. The further back you go in his playing career, the scarcer the cards tend to be. This scarcity drives up the value and makes the hunt for these gems even more exciting. It’s not just about owning a card of a great player; it’s about owning a piece of history that’s increasingly hard to find. The thrill of the chase, the satisfaction of completing a set, and the potential for appreciation in value are all part of the allure. For many, it’s a nostalgic trip back to Sundays spent watching "Too Tall" and the Cowboys dominate, and the cards serve as a tangible link to those cherished memories.

Identifying Valuable "Too Tall" Cards

When you're hunting for valuable Ed Too Tall Jones football cards, you need to know what to look for. The most sought-after cards typically come from his early playing days, especially his rookie cards. These are often the rarest and most expensive. The 1975 Topps card is widely considered his true rookie card and is highly prized by collectors. Look for cards in excellent condition – think Near Mint (NM) or Mint (M). Grading services like PSA or BGS can authenticate and assign a numerical grade to your cards, with higher grades commanding significantly higher prices. A PSA 9 or 10 "Too Tall" rookie card can be worth a substantial amount. Beyond the rookie card, look for cards from special sets or inserts that might have been released during his career. These often have limited print runs, making them harder to find. Also, consider cards that depict him in significant moments, like playoff games or Pro Bowl appearances, though these are less common as standalone cards. The design of the card also plays a role; cleaner, more visually appealing designs tend to be more popular. The condition of the corners, edges, centering, and surface are all critical factors in determining a card's grade and, consequently, its value. Even minor flaws can drastically reduce a card's worth. It’s also worth noting that variations or errors on cards, though rare, can sometimes increase their desirability among niche collectors. When researching specific cards, check recent sales data on reputable auction sites and trading card marketplaces to get a realistic idea of current market values. Remember, patience is key in card collecting. Don't rush into a purchase; do your homework, understand the market, and aim for quality over quantity. Owning a well-preserved, graded rookie card of Ed "Too Tall" Jones is a significant achievement for any collector.

Key Ed Too Tall Jones Football Card Releases

Alright guys, let's talk about the specific cards that should be on your radar when you're hunting for Ed "Too Tall" Jones football cards. The undisputed king, as mentioned, is his 1975 Topps card. This is his official rookie card and the one that most collectors will target first. It features a great action shot of "Too Tall" in his Cowboys uniform, looking every bit the intimidating force he was on the field. Because it's his rookie card from a popular manufacturer during a key era, its value and desirability are consistently high. Beyond the rookie, the 1976 Topps card is another excellent pickup. It continues the clean design aesthetic of Topps from that era and shows Jones as a solidified star in the league. Following that, you'll find his cards in the 1977 Topps, 1978 Topps, and 1979 Topps sets. These cards represent him during his prime years with the Cowboys, often showcasing his Super Bowl XII victory or Pro Bowl selections through team photos or highlights. While not as rare as the rookie card, these cards are still essential for completing a "Too Tall" player collection and are generally more accessible. Keep an eye out for special variations or inserts that might have been included in these sets, though they are less common for players of this era compared to today's releases. The key is to focus on the condition of these cards. A high-grade example of any of these Topps issues will be significantly more valuable than a lower-grade one. Don't underestimate the power of a well-preserved card from the mid-to-late 70s; these represent a golden age of football and "Too Tall" Jones was a central figure. For serious collectors, tracking down these specific releases in top condition is the ultimate goal, offering both a connection to the past and a potentially sound investment. Remember, the journey of finding these cards is part of the fun!

The 1975 Topps Rookie Card

The 1975 Topps Ed "Too Tall" Jones rookie card is, without a doubt, the crown jewel for any collector interested in this legendary defensive end. This card isn't just a piece of cardboard; it's a significant artifact from a pivotal era in NFL history. Topps, as the dominant trading card manufacturer at the time, produced sets that are now considered foundational for many sports card collections. The 1975 set itself is highly regarded, and the inclusion of a rising star like Ed "Too Tall" Jones made his card an instant target for collectors. The image on the card typically captures Jones in his iconic Dallas Cowboys blue and silver, often in a determined stance, embodying the "Doomsday Defense" spirit. What makes this card particularly special is its status as his first officially licensed trading card. This "rookie card" designation carries immense weight in the hobby, signifying the player's official entry into the trading card world. Collectors value rookie cards above all else for a player, as they represent the earliest official trading card issued. The rarity of this card, especially in high-grade condition, contributes significantly to its value. Many of these cards have suffered the ravages of time, with faded colors, soft corners, or off-center printing. Finding one that is sharply defined, well-centered, and free from major flaws is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. The market demand for this specific card remains strong, fueled by nostalgia for the Cowboys' dynasty of the 70s and Jones's own larger-than-life persona. For anyone serious about building a comprehensive collection of Hall of Fame-caliber players or Dallas Cowboys memorabilia, the 1975 Topps "Too Tall" Jones card is an essential acquisition. Its historical significance, combined with its scarcity and iconic imagery, makes it a standout piece that continues to appreciate in value.

Tips for Collecting Ed Too Tall Jones Cards

So, you're ready to embark on the epic quest of collecting Ed "Too Tall" Jones football cards? Awesome! Here are a few pointers from a fellow collector to help you on your journey. First off, do your research. Before you start throwing money around, understand which cards are the most valuable and sought-after. As we've discussed, the 1975 Topps rookie card is the holy grail, but don't overlook his other cards from the late 70s and early 80s, as they are still fantastic additions. Websites like eBay, COMC, and various sports card forums are great resources for checking prices and seeing what's available. Secondly, focus on condition. Seriously, guys, condition is everything in this hobby. A beat-up card might be cheaper, but a mint condition card will hold its value much better and look way cooler in your binder. Pay close attention to the corners, edges, surface, and centering. If you can afford it, getting key cards professionally graded by services like PSA or BGS can add significant value and peace of mind. Thirdly, buy from reputable sources. Whether you're shopping online or at a card show, try to stick with sellers who have good reviews and a solid reputation. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true – they often are. Look for clear photos and detailed descriptions. Fourth, be patient. Building a great collection takes time. Don't expect to find everything overnight. Enjoy the hunt! Sometimes the thrill is in the search, discovering that hidden gem at a flea market or winning an auction after a tense bidding war. Finally, protect your investment. Once you get your "Too Tall" cards, make sure you store them properly. Use penny sleeves and top loaders to protect them from scratches and bends. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve their condition and value for years to come. Remember, collecting is about passion, history, and a bit of fun. Happy hunting!

Protecting Your Collection

Once you've managed to snag some awesome Ed "Too Tall" Jones football cards, the next crucial step is protecting your investment. You don't want all that hard work and cash to go to waste because of poor storage, right? So, let's talk about how to keep those treasures in top-notch condition. The first line of defense for any single trading card is a soft penny sleeve. These are thin, clear plastic sleeves that fit snugly around the card, protecting its surface from scratches and general grime. They're super cheap and absolutely essential. After the penny sleeve, you'll want to put the card into a harder plastic top loader. This is a thicker, more rigid plastic case that protects the card from bending and provides extra protection for the corners and edges. Make sure the top loader is the correct size for your card (standard size for most football cards). For particularly valuable or high-grade cards, especially those that are professionally graded, consider using **