Bill Parcells was known for being one of the toughest coaches to play for during his tenure in the NFL, but Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten recently shared a story about Parcells showing him mercy. Simply put, there was once a time where Witten thought eating a hot dog might get him cut.
On Wednesday, Witten told reporters at an Independence Bowl event that Parcells caught him eating a hot dog during halftime of a preseason game several years ago.
“It was raining, and I had played most of the first half, catching a touchdown pass, and we were beating the Saints pretty good,” Witten said, according to The Shreveport Times. “I figured I was finished at halftime, because starters usually didn’t play that much in preseason games. I walked under the stadium and saw the most beautiful hotdog you’ve ever seen. I dressed it all up with mustard, and ketchup and relish — then I was in mid-bite when coach (Bill) Parcells walked in.
“I felt about this big (motions with fingers). I didn’t figure I’d play another game as a Cowboy.”
[Related: Bill Parcells motivated DeMarcus Ware by ragging on him]
I’m always skeptical of people who put ketchup on their hot dog, but that’s beside the point. Apparently Parcells appreciates the power of a craving, because Witten is still with Dallas and has been one of the most productive tight ends in football throughout his career. Either that, or Witten just got lucky and caught the Big Tuna on a good day.
