Troy Aikman Turns Heads Beside Legendary QB With ‘Cool’ Nickname After Cowboys Icon’s Loss

“He, without question, is my favorite quarterback in the NFL.” That’s what Troy Aikman said about Joe Burrow last year. But that doesn’t mean he doesn’t admire others. After all, how could he not have Tom Brady on that list? Aikman supported Brady through it all – on the field, in the booth, and even as a minority owner. Still, despite all the legends he’s backed, there’s one name that stands above the rest in his eyes. The one he still believes is the greatest of all time. And guess what? Former Dallas Cowboys’ QB is getting a rare chance to meet his all-time favorite once again.

On Thursday, Troy Aikman took to Instagram to share a special moment with a fellow NFL legend. He posted a photo of himself alongside San Francisco 49ers icon Joe Montana. Aikman kept it casual in a black tee, a quilted jacket, and jeans, while Montana stayed true to his “Joe Cool” nickname, rocking a black button-up shirt with white square patterns and a big, easy smile.

No doubt, the two Hall of Famers looked relaxed and happy, catching up at Nobu Malibu, a Japanese spot in California. But what’s more interesting is the caption of the story. Troy Aikman’s caption said it all: “Ran into a (goat emoji) last night,” tipping his cap to Montana as the greatest of all time. And if you’ve followed Aikman long enough, you know this isn’t the first time he’s shown love for Montana. So let’s rewind the clock, back to 11 years ago.

Remember in 2014, when Troy Aikman appeared on the Dan Patrick Show, he was asked a simple but powerful question. Who’s the most dynamic quarterback of all time? Without hesitation, he gave just one name: Joe Montana. Aikman didn’t bother comparing stats or eras. He said, “I don’t care if we’re comparing him against anyone from today’s game or not, or what his numbers may or may not look like. I saw him do it on the biggest stage, in the biggest moments, and bring his team back and do the things that I think are required of the position.” That kind of respect doesn’t come lightly.

Joe Montana wasn’t just a quarterback, he was ice in the veins when everything was falling apart. They didn’t call him “Joe Cool” and “The Comeback Kid” for nothing. Time ticking down, game on the line? That’s when he thrived. He pulled off 32 fourth-quarter comebacks during his time. Thirty-two times he looked defeat in the eye…. and flipped the script. That’s not just clutch, it’s legendary. And now that Troy Aikman got another chance to meet 49ers‘ star Montana, it’s like a bright spot in the middle of some tough, heartbreaking moments happening around him.

Troy Aikman faced a couple of heartbreaking news this week!

This week, Terrell Owens announced the death of his beloved high school receivers coach, Gary Jackson Powell. The one who taught him how to fight, block, and believe. Owens found out on May 15 that his Coach didn’t have much time left. Thanks to Coach’s granddaughter, Caity, he got one last chance to say goodbye. Coach couldn’t speak, but Owens knew he was listening. He told him he loved him, and he’d miss him. And hours later, Coach was gone. Sharing this heartbreaking moment online, Owens’ heart cracked wide open. Cowboys‘ star Troy Aikman, who saw it, quietly showed his love by liking the post.

But things again felt harsh for Aikman when he got the news that his favorite actor from Cheers, George Wendt, who played Norm, died at 76. On Thursday, he shared a story post for the actor, saying, “RIP Norm.” This death news was the second one in just 24 hours for the former quarterback.

Nevertheless, finally, Troy Aikman is feeling better after meeting his favorite QB all-time, Joe Montana.