In a somber note for the American football community, Duane Thomas, the illustrious former NFL running back, has passed away at the age of 77. Thomas, who played a pivotal role in the Dallas Cowboys' first Super Bowl triumph, has left behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
A Rookie Sensation
Thomas entered the NFL with a bang, delivering one of the most stellar rookie seasons in NFL history as he geared up for the 1971 offseason. His explosive performance was instrumental in propelling the Cowboys to their inaugural Super Bowl appearance. Showcasing his exceptional skills, Thomas led the league with a remarkable 5.3 yards-per-carry average—a franchise record that remained unbeaten until Emmitt Smith matched it in 1993.
Veteran Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach, reflecting on Thomas' contributions, said, "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."
The Struggle for Recognition
Despite his accolades, Thomas' journey with the Cowboys was not without its challenges. Seeking a pay raise before the 1971 season, Thomas found himself at odds with team management. The standoff culminated in Thomas being traded to the New England Patriots, a move that was ultimately vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle.
Upon his return to Dallas, Thomas took a vow of silence for the entire 1971 season, yet his on-field performance spoke volumes. He led the league in rushing touchdowns that year, contributing significantly to the Cowboys securing their sixth consecutive division title.
Playoff Dominance
Thomas' playoff performance was nothing short of spectacular. Scoring three touchdowns across three games, including in the grand stage of Super Bowl VI, he etched his name in football history. In Super Bowl VI, Thomas churned out 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, clinching a 3-yard touchdown run, and added three receptions, helping the Cowboys to a commanding 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins.
Former teammate Bob Lilly praised Thomas' athletic prowess by recalling, "I just can't tell people enough how good he was. 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."
The Aftermath
Despite his contributions, Thomas' tenure with the Cowboys was abruptly ended when he was released before the 1972 season. Choosing to sit out the entire 1972 season, Thomas resurfaced later with the Washington franchise, where he spent two seasons before retiring from the NFL.
Reflecting on his career and legacy nearly 35 years after his Super Bowl victory, Thomas remained a figure of introspection and depth. "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," he shared. His contemplative nature extended to his sense of accomplishment, as he poignantly noted, "It's a sense of accomplishment that ... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet."
The legacy of Duane Thomas is one of immense talent, quiet determination, and unyielding passion. His contributions to the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL at large will continue to inspire future generations of athletes. As the football world bids farewell to this remarkable player, his memory will undoubtedly endure in the annals of NFL history.