Man Who Helped Dallas Cowboys Take Superbowl Victory Has Died

Man Who Helped Dallas Cowboys Take Superbowl Victory Has Died

Duane Thomas, the former Dallas Cowboys running back who played a crucial role in the team’s first Super Bowl victory, has passed away at the age of 77. The Cowboys confirmed his death on Tuesday, August 7, 2024, though no cause was reported. Thomas’s career, while brief, was marked by both on-field brilliance and off-field controversies, leaving an indelible mark on Cowboys history.

A Stellar Start and Super Bowl Triumph

Thomas was drafted by the Cowboys in the first round in 1970 and had an impressive rookie season. However, it was the 1971 season that truly showcased his talents. Playing in 11 games, 10 as a starter, Thomas rushed for 793 yards and led the league with 11 touchdowns. His performance was instrumental in propelling the Cowboys to Super Bowl VI against the Miami Dolphins.

USA Today reported that, “Playing in 11 games, 10 as a starter, in the 1971 season, Thomas rushed for 793 yards and a league-leading 11 touchdowns.”

In the Super Bowl, Thomas delivered a stellar performance, rushing for 95 yards and scoring a touchdown as the Cowboys dominated the Dolphins 24-3. This victory marked Dallas’s first Super Bowl title, cementing Thomas’s place in team lore.

Controversies and Career Challenges

Thomas’s career was not without its challenges. He had a tumultuous relationship with the Cowboys organization, including contract disputes and a notorious incident where he referred to coach Tom Landry as a “plastic man.” These conflicts led to his trade to the New England Patriots before the 1971 season, but Thomas refused to report, and the trade was voided by then-Commissioner Pete Rozelle.

CBS News reported that Thomas wouldn’t speak with reporters during the season because he thought they were on “management’s side.”

After the 1971 season, Thomas was traded to the San Diego Chargers but did not play for them. He sat out the 1972 season before finishing his NFL career with the Washington Redskins in 1973-74.

Legacy and Remembrance

Despite his short career, Thomas left a lasting impact on those who knew him. Former teammate Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson shared his memories, saying, “I slept six feet from him and he didn’t have much to say. He was a peaceful man.”

Thomas was known for his quiet demeanor off the field, a stark contrast to his dynamic presence on it. His contributions to the Cowboys’ first Super Bowl victory ensure his place in NFL history, even as his career was marked by what might have been.

Sources

  1. Duane Thomas, who helped Dallas Cowboys win Super Bowl VI, dies at 77
  2. Duane Thomas, former Cowboys running back and Super Bowl champion, dies at 77
  3. Super Bowl winner Duane Thomas dead at 77: Former RB helped the Cowboys win first championship

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