SAD NEWS: Duane Thomas, Dallas Cowboys Super Bowl Champion, Dies at 77
Duane Thomas, the enigmatic running back who played a pivotal role in the Dallas Cowboys’ first Super Bowl victory, has passed away at the age of 77. His death was confirmed by team officials and former teammates, though the cause of death has not been disclosed.
A Star in the Making
Born on June 21, 1947, in Dallas, Texas, Thomas quickly rose to prominence as a football talent. After starring at Lincoln High School and West Texas State University, he was selected by the Cowboys as the 23rd overall pick in the 1970 NFL Draft. His rookie season was remarkable, with 803 rushing yards and five touchdowns, helping the Cowboys reach Super Bowl V.
Super Bowl VI Hero
Despite a tumultuous relationship with team management, Thomas returned to the Cowboys after a voided trade to New England. In the 1971 season, he led the NFL with 11 rushing touchdowns and played a key role in Dallas’s Super Bowl VI victory over the Miami Dolphins. His performance included 95 rushing yards and a touchdown in the Cowboys’ dominant 24-3 win.
Thomas famously broke his vow of silence before the game with his now-iconic quote: *”If it’s the ultimate [game], how come they’re playing it again next year?”*
A Career Cut Short
Thomas’s NFL career was marked by controversy and brevity. Following disputes with management and coach Tom Landry—whom he once referred to as “plastic man”—he was traded multiple times but never recaptured his early success. He played briefly for the San Diego Chargers and Washington Redskins before attempting comebacks in the Canadian Football League and with the Green Bay Packers.
In just four seasons, Thomas amassed 2,038 rushing yards and scored 21 touchdowns. Despite his short tenure, he left an indelible mark on football history.
Legacy Beyond Football
Thomas’s contributions extended beyond his athletic achievements. In 1989, he co-authored a memoir titled “Duane Thomas and the Fall of America’s Team,” reflecting on his career and challenges. He was inducted into the Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame in 2004.
Reflecting on his time in football during a 2004 interview, Thomas said: *“The main thrust of what I remember is the meaning of friendship, teamwork, dealing with adversity, and accomplishing goals. That was what it was all about for me.”*
Tributes Pour In
Former teammate Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson paid tribute on Facebook: *”The Great Duane Thomas passed away yesterday. He was a great Cowboy… Lots of laughs and moments. RIP DUANE THOMAS.”*
Fans and sports analysts have also shared their condolences online, celebrating Thomas’s contributions to football and his unique personality.
Conclusion
Duane Thomas’s legacy as one of football’s most talented yet misunderstood players endures. His impact on the Dallas Cowboys’ history and his role in their first Super Bowl victory remain unforgettable. Rest in peace to a true legend of the game.
