Former NFL player demands that if Jerry Jones signs Troy Aikman, he should also sign another Cowboys legend: “That’s not right”

Former NFL cornerback Asante Samuel has jokingly challenged Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones over his reported interest in bringing Troy Aikman back to the organization.

Samuel believes that if the franchise wants to reunite with its legendary quarterback, another member of its championship-winning past deserves an invitation: Michael Irvin.

The discussion comes as Aikman's future in television remains uncertain. The Hall of Fame quarterback, who currently works as an analyst for ESPN's Monday Night Football, recently suggested there's a 50-50 chance he won't return to broadcasting next year.

Aikman's contract with ESPN expires after the Super Bowl in February 2027, and reports have raised questions about whether the network intends to offer him an extension. His broadcasting partner, Joe Buck , secured a new five-year agreement in September, adding another layer to the uncertainty surrounding Aikman's position.

With his television future unresolved, the former Cowboys quarterback could potentially explore opportunities elsewhere, including a return to the franchise where he established his legacy.

Jones has already expressed interest in that possibility, leaving the door open for Aikman to take on a significant position within the organization. During a recent radio appearance, the Cowboys owner described a potential reunion as "very possible."

Samuel quickly weighed in on the possibility, suggesting that Jones shouldn't bring Aikman back without also finding a place for Irvin .

"How can Jerry Jones hire Troy Aikman and not bring Michael Irvin along. That’s not right," Samuel wrote on X.

Asante Samuel believes Michael Irvin deserves a place in potential Cowboys reunion

Samuel's suggestion carries a connection to Dallas' successful past. Aikman and Irvin were central figures during the Cowboys' dominant run in the 1990s, establishing themselves as one of the NFL's most productive quarterback-receiver combinations.

Together, they helped Dallas capture three Super Bowl championships, building a legacy that remains closely associated with the franchise's greatest era.

Their on-field chemistry was particularly impressive, with Aikman completing 641 passes to Irvin across 128 games together. Those connections produced 9,949 receiving yards and 54 touchdowns.

Irvin was a major offensive weapon throughout that period, while Aikman provided the leadership and consistency that helped the Cowboys compete for championships. Their contributions made them two of the most recognizable figures in franchise history.

Bringing the pair back into the organization could also create an opportunity for Dallas to benefit from their experience and understanding of what it takes to build a championship-caliber team. Both players know the expectations that come with representing one of the NFL's most recognizable franchises.

Aikman has previously expressed interest in working in an NFL front office, and his consulting experience with the Miami Dolphins could provide a foundation for a move into an executive position.

However, there's no confirmation that Dallas has made a formal offer or that discussions have progressed beyond the possibility raised by Jones .

Whether Aikman eventually leaves broadcasting remains another important question. With ESPN yet to secure his future beyond the current season, the 59-year-old could soon face a significant career decision.