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Cowboys have no sun dial but unbothered by infamous glare, Stephen Jones says

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  Published in Humor and Quirks on Saturday, October 18th 2025 at 12:07 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Cowboys Defy the Glare: Stephen Jones Dismisses Infamous AT&T Stadium Sun Issue

The Dallas Cowboys, perennial contenders and consistent lightning rods for media attention, are once again facing a unique challenge – sunlight. For years, fans and opponents alike have noted a peculiar phenomenon at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas: a blinding glare that occurs during certain afternoon games due to the stadium’s retractable roof panels reflecting the sun directly onto the field. While this “sun dial” effect has impacted visibility for players and frustrated viewers, Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones remains remarkably unfazed, dismissing concerns as part of playing in a unique venue.

The issue stems from AT&T Stadium's design. Built with massive, translucent ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) panels instead of traditional roofing materials, the stadium allows natural light to flood the field. However, when the sun is at a specific angle – typically between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM during certain times of the year – these panels act as giant mirrors, creating an intense glare that can temporarily blind players attempting to catch passes or track the ball’s trajectory.

The problem isn't new. As detailed in a 2013 Sports Illustrated article referenced within the original piece, the glare was noticeable even during the stadium’s opening season. The Cowboys initially attempted to mitigate the issue by adjusting the roof panel angles and experimenting with different film coatings on the panels. However, these efforts proved largely ineffective, and the “sun dial” became a recurring talking point whenever afternoon games were played.

The impact of the glare has been tangible. Quarterbacks have struggled to accurately deliver passes, receivers have dropped catchable balls, and defensive players have had difficulty tracking the ball in flight. Opposing teams have also voiced complaints, with some coaches openly acknowledging the disadvantage it presents. Former Washington Commanders coach Mike Shanahan famously lamented the effect during a 2013 game, stating that his quarterback couldn't see the ball.

Despite these documented issues and ongoing fan frustration, Jones maintains a dismissive attitude. He argues that the glare is simply an unavoidable consequence of playing in a stadium with a unique design – one he believes contributes to the overall spectacle and atmosphere. “It’s part of our stadium,” Jones stated recently. “We love it.” He further suggested that players should adapt to the conditions, implying that any difficulty they experience is a matter of adjustment rather than a significant impediment.

This perspective contrasts sharply with the experiences of those directly affected by the glare. While professional athletes are expected to overcome challenges, the intensity and predictability of the AT&T Stadium sun dial present a particularly unusual obstacle. The original Sports Illustrated article highlights that while players can anticipate the potential for glare, reacting in real-time during a fast-paced game is incredibly difficult.

Furthermore, Jones’s nonchalant attitude has drawn criticism from some corners. While he emphasizes the stadium's uniqueness and its contribution to the fan experience, critics argue that the Cowboys have a responsibility to ensure fair playing conditions for both teams. The glare undeniably creates an uneven playing field, potentially influencing game outcomes in ways unrelated to skill or strategy.

The original article also references a 2018 incident where a referee signaled for a replay review due to concerns about the sun’s impact on visibility during a crucial play. This underscores the seriousness of the issue and suggests that even officials recognize its potential to affect the integrity of the game.

Looking ahead, it's unlikely that the Cowboys will undertake any significant modifications to address the glare. The cost of altering the stadium’s design would be substantial, and Jones has repeatedly indicated a lack of interest in pursuing such measures. He seems content to embrace the “sun dial” as an integral part of the AT&T Stadium experience, even if it continues to frustrate players and viewers alike. This stance reinforces the Cowboys' reputation for prioritizing spectacle and tradition over practical solutions, solidifying their position as one of the NFL’s most polarizing franchises.

[ https://www.si.com/nfl/cowboys/news/dallas-cowboys-have-no-sun-dial-unbothered-infamous-glare-stephen-jones ]