Duane Thomas, the former NFL running back who played a crucial role in helping the Dallas Cowboys capture their first Super Bowl championship, has passed away at the age of 77. His contributions to the game, particularly during the early 1970s, remain memorable to many football fans and former teammates alike.
Pivotal Role in Cowboys' Success
Duane Thomas burst onto the NFL scene with a stellar rookie season, helping to solidify the Cowboys' offensive lineup. Entering the 1971 offseason with a remarkable debut under his belt, Thomas was poised for even greater achievements. His standout performance saw him average an impressive 5.3 yards per carry, setting a Cowboys' franchise record that remained untouched until the legendary Emmitt Smith matched it in 1993.
Thomas' dynamic playing style and unmatched agility drew inevitable comparisons to NFL greats. "I just can't tell people enough how good he was," said Hall of Fame defensive tackle Bob Lilly. "I just had visions of Jim Brown coming back to life. Duane had those same moves... 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."
Conflict with Management
Despite his on-field success, Thomas faced challenges off the field. Entering the 1971 season, he sought a pay raise from the Cowboys' management, a request that was met with resistance. The discord resulted in Thomas being traded to the New England Patriots. However, the trade was subsequently vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle, and Thomas returned to Dallas with a since of resolve.
Upon his return, Thomas chose a path of silence, refusing to engage in communications for the entire 1971 season. Yet, his performance spoke volumes. Thomas' prowess on the field continued unabated as he led the NFL in rushing touchdowns and propelled the Cowboys to their sixth consecutive division title. Through the playoffs, Thomas remained a force to be reckoned with, scoring three touchdowns in as many games, including one in the pivotal Super Bowl VI against the Miami Dolphins.
Super Bowl Heroics
In Super Bowl VI, Thomas delivered an outstanding performance that encapsulated his value to the Cowboys. He racked up 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, including a 3-yard touchdown run, and added three receptions. The Cowboys' dominant 24-3 victory over the Dolphins secured their place in NFL history, with Thomas playing a key role in their success. Teammate Roger Staubach, who had shared the field with Thomas, summed up his contributions succinctly: "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."
Post-Super Bowl Career and Reflections
Despite his Super Bowl heroics, Thomas' journey with the Cowboys came to an unexpected end. He was released before the 1972 season, a move that left many fans and analysts stunned. Thomas chose not to participate in the 1972 NFL season, instead stepping away from the game. Eventually, he joined the Washington Redskins, where he played for two seasons before retiring from the NFL.
Looking back on his career nearly 35 years later, Thomas reflected on his time in the league and the legacy he left behind. "It's a sense of accomplishment that... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet," he remarked, expressing the enduring significance of his achievements on the field.
Duane Thomas' death marks the end of an era for those who remember the days when he took the NFL by storm with his electrifying performances. His journey was not without its challenges, but his contributions to the Dallas Cowboys and the broader NFL narrative ensure that he will be remembered as one of the greats who helped shape the game we know today.