Superbowl Champion Duane Thomas Dead at 77

Superbowl Champion Duane Thomas Dead at 77

Duane Thomas, the enigmatic Dallas Cowboys running back who helped bring America’s Team their first Super Bowl victory, has passed away at 77. For those of us who remember the glory days of football, before it became a politically correct circus, Thomas was a reminder of when players let their performance do the talking – sometimes quite literally. So, let’s put aside our complaints about today’s NFL and take a moment to honor a true champion, warts and all.

The Rise of a Cowboy Legend

Duane Thomas burst onto the NFL scene when the Dallas Cowboys selected him in the first round of the 1970 draft. His rookie season showed promise, but it was in 1971 that Thomas truly made his mark. Playing in 11 games, 10 as a starter, Thomas rushed for 793 yards and led the league with 11 touchdowns. His performance was crucial in propelling the Cowboys to their first Super Bowl appearance.

In Super Bowl VI, Thomas showcased his talents on the biggest stage, rushing for 95 yards and scoring a touchdown in the Cowboys’ 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins. This performance cemented his place in Cowboys history and earned him a Super Bowl ring.

A Career Marked by Controversy

While Thomas’s on-field performance was impressive, his off-field antics often overshadowed his athletic achievements. He was known for his contentious relationship with the Cowboys organization, including contract disputes and an infamous incident where he referred to legendary coach Tom Landry as a “plastic man.”

During the 1971 football season, Thomas refused to speak with reporters as he felt they were siding with management. This silent treatment extended to his teammates as well, earning him the nickname “The Sphinx.” Despite his reticence, Thomas’s impact on the field was undeniable, and he played a crucial role in the Cowboys’ success.

The Later Years and Legacy

After his Super Bowl triumph, Thomas’s career took a tumultuous turn. He was traded to the New England Patriots before the 1971 season but refused to report, resulting in the trade being voided. Following the 1971 season, he was traded to the San Diego Chargers but again refused to comply, sitting out the entire 1972 season.

Thomas eventually finished his NFL career with the Washington Redskins (now Commanders) in 1973-74. Despite the controversies that marked his career, those who knew him off the field paint a different picture.

“I slept six feet from him and he didn’t have much to say. He was a peaceful man.” – Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson

This quiet demeanor off the field contrasted sharply with his fierce competitiveness on it, making Duane Thomas one of the most intriguing figures in NFL history.

As we remember Duane Thomas, let’s focus on his contributions to the game and the indelible mark he left on America’s Team. In an era where many athletes seem more concerned with their social media presence than their on-field performance, Thomas’s dedication to the game – even in silence – stands as a testament to a bygone era of football greatness.

Sources:

  1. Duane Thomas, former Cowboys running back and Super Bowl champion, dies at 77
  2. Super Bowl winner Duane Thomas dead at 77: Former RB helped the Cowboys win first championship
  3. Duane Thomas, who helped Dallas Cowboys win Super Bowl VI, dies at 77
  4. Former Cowboys running back, Super Bowl champion Duane Thomas dead at 77
  5. Former NFL Star and Super Bowl Champion Duane Thomas Dead at 77
  6. Duane Thomas dies: Former Cowboys running back, Super Bowl champion was 77

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