Adam Jones isn't playing against Minnesota, but will be ready for the Sept. 7 opener in Cleveland.

IRVING, Texas - The biggest story coming out of Thursday's preseason finale against the Vikings actually occurred several hours before the game.

And to think, the player involved in the story isn't even playing.

But Adam "Pacman" Jones being reinstated by the NFL will likely be the biggest news of the night. Although Jones didn't play against the Vikings in the preseason finale, as the Cowboys sat most of their starters, he did have a few moments to talk to the media before kickoff.

How does it feel?

JONES: It feels good. This is the next step in the process. I've been waiting for this time for a long time. It's not like we've won the Super Bowl or anything. I know my responsibilities of being a player in the NFL. I'm going to hold my own and do what I need to do right now, which is stay reinstated.

Who was the first person you called?

JONES: My mom was the first person I called. Through these trials and tribulations that I've been through, she's been my backbone, along with my little girl.

Did you ever doubt this day would come?

JONES: I wouldn't say I ever doubted this day because I've kept my faith up. I'm a very spiritual person. I always said one day that it would happen.

When you say taking the next step, do you mean off the field too?

JONES: Off the field, I would say that. I have to conduct myself like an NFL player to make sure none of these actions come again. I would say yes, this is the next step.

So all of your problems are behind you?

JONES: I can say it's all behind me. I work hard every day to make sure I don't make the same mistakes. Can I say I would never ever make the same mistakes? No I can't say that. I'll make sure I put myself in way better situations than I have in the past.

What are the concrete steps you're taking to make sure that doesn't happen again?

JONES: Surrounding myself with the right people. Staying out of Gentlemen's Clubs. I have a great relationship with God and I'm spending more time with my family.

Did the Commissioner call you?

JONES: Actually I talked to (Greg Aiello) and the Commissioner also called my agent and Jerry.

Was it hard to tell some of your old friends they have no role in your life anymore?

JONES: No, it's not difficult. Being through what I've been through. You do so much for people, when you get your back against the wall, it's ridiculous how quick they run out of there. It wasn't hard for me doing that. Besides God and my mom and my little girl, I really don't know who's been there with me to fight this fight in my corner.

Can you talk about your new teammates here in Dallas?

JONES: It's a great group of teammates. If you look at my phone, 90 percent of my teammates text me with like "Hey man, congratulations . . . we're glad you're back. Let's go now. This is a stepping stone. Let's make it happen.' My teammates are great. I think them for the support. I also thank Jerry. Hands down, he really helped me out a lot.

Is this the way you always envisioned things to be?

JONES: This is what I wanted. I always wanted to be a part of the star. Now I'm reinstated and fully a Dallas Cowboys. I don't have it lingering over my head like, 'will he get reinstated, or will he not get reinstated.' I've just got to keep myself out of the bad situations like I've been doing the last six or seven months.

Where were you when you got the call?

JONES: Actually I was walking in the parking lot when I got the call. Yeah, I did scream. I called my mom because I've been beating myself up but my mom has been through this rollercoaster with me.