Duane Thomas, a former standout NFL running back, has died at the age of 77. Known for his role in the Dallas Cowboys' first Super Bowl championship, Thomas leaves behind a legacy marked by extraordinary athleticism and memorable moments on the gridiron.
Thomas joined the Cowboys in the early 1970s and quickly made an impact. Entering the 1971 offseason, he delivered one of the best rookie seasons in NFL history, showcasing his exceptional talent and determination. His prowess on the field helped the Cowboys secure their inaugural Super Bowl appearance, thanks in part to his league-best 5.3 yards-per-carry average—a franchise record that remained unchallenged until Emmitt Smith matched it in 1993.
However, Thomas's relationship with the Cowboys was not without its challenges. As he sought a pay raise entering the 1971 season, team management refused to accommodate his demands, leading to a brief yet significant upheaval. Thomas was initially traded to the New England Patriots, but the move was vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle, resulting in Thomas's return to Dallas. In a striking demonstration of his focus and resolve, Thomas remained silent throughout the entire 1971 season, letting his performance speak volumes instead.
Despite the silence, Thomas's contribution on the field was impossible to ignore. He led the NFL in rushing touchdowns during the 1971 season and played a key role in helping the Cowboys secure their sixth consecutive division title. His efforts were particularly evident during Dallas's playoff run, where he scored three touchdowns across three games, including in Super Bowl VI.
During Super Bowl VI, Thomas's performance was nothing short of exemplary. He amassed 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, scored a 3-yard touchdown run, and added three receptions, all of which contributed to the Cowboys' decisive 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins.
Yet, Thomas's tenure with the Cowboys came to an abrupt end before the 1972 season began, as the team decided to release him. He opted not to participate in the 1972 NFL season but later joined the Washington Football Team, where he spent two seasons before retiring from professional football.
Reflecting on his career nearly 35 years after his Super Bowl triumph, Thomas remarked, "It's a sense of accomplishment that ... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet." His sentiments capture the profound impact his NFL career had on his life, despite its relatively brief span.
Teammates and contemporaries lauded Thomas for his skill and contributions. Roger Staubach, the legendary Cowboys quarterback, praised Thomas's dedication, stating, "Duane Thomas gave everything he had. He blocked hard, he ran hard, he played hard, and he was very smart. Duane rarely made a mistake." Such high praise from a player of Staubach's stature underscores Thomas's exceptional talent and work ethic.
Bob Lilly, a Hall of Fame defensive tackle, echoed Staubach's admiration. "I just can't tell people enough how good he was," Lilly said. "I just had visions of Jim Brown coming back to life. Duane, he had those same moves, the ones where you think you have him, and he wiggles out of it or he gives up a limp leg. He could really go off-tackle, about as good as I ever saw, and start needing his way through the linebackers and the secondary. Almost like music. In fact, I can see it right now."
Thomas himself offered insight into his often-controversial persona: "I didn't come in with an attitude of disruption. However, when I exposed my true personality, it was disruptive to other personalities on the team. But it was not disruptive to the performance of the team."
In remembering Duane Thomas, it is essential to appreciate the impact he had on the NFL and the indelible mark he left on the Dallas Cowboys. His athletic brilliance, combined with his unique personality, created a narrative that transcends the statistics and records. As the football community mourns his passing, it also celebrates a player who significantly shaped the game and inspired countless fans and players alike.