Duane Thomas, the former NFL running back who played a crucial role in the Dallas Cowboys' first Super Bowl victory, has passed away at the age of 77. Thomas, remembered for his powerful runs and impeccable game sense, left an indelible mark on the NFL, culminating in a Hall of Fame-worthy season that defined his career.
A Rookie Sensation
Thomas burst onto the NFL scene with one of the best rookie seasons in history, setting high expectations for his future. As he entered the 1971 offseason, Thomas's exceptional performance had already begun shaping his legacy. Averaging a league-best 5.3 yards per carry, Thomas shattered franchise records—a feat unmatched until Emmitt Smith equaled it in 1993. His impressive contribution was instrumental in guiding the Cowboys to their first-ever Super Bowl.
Playing Through Silence
The dynamic running back sought a pay raise entering the 1971 season, leading to a contentious standoff with the Cowboys' management. The trade to New England that followed was blocked by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle, forcing Thomas to remain with Dallas. Despite the friction, Thomas chose to remain silent throughout the 1971 season, but his impact on the field spoke volumes. He led the NFL in rushing touchdowns that season, fueling the Cowboys to their sixth consecutive division title.
Super Bowl Glory
Thomas’s stellar performance was pivotal in Dallas's playoff run, where he scored three touchdowns in as many games, including Super Bowl VI. In the championship game, he delivered another memorable performance with 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, a three-yard touchdown run, and three receptions. The Cowboys' dominating 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins was a testament to his contributions. Reflecting on Thomas's capabilities, Cowboys legend Roger Staubach noted, "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 End of an Era
Despite his on-field heroics, Thomas's relationship with the Cowboys eventually soured. He was released before the 1972 season commenced and chose not to participate that year. His NFL journey saw a brief resurgence when he joined Washington, where he played two more seasons before retiring. Reflecting on his career years later, Thomas shared, "It's a sense of accomplishment that ... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet."
Reflections on a Legacy
Thomas remained contemplative about his career and impact on the sport even years after his retirement. During an interview nearly 35 years after his Super Bowl triumph, he offered insights into his complex personality dynamics. "I didn't come in with an attitude of disruption," Thomas said. "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."
The Cowboys’ defensive stalwart Bob Lilly also remembered Thomas fondly, stating, "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 weaving his way through the linebackers and the secondary. Almost like music. In fact, I can see it right now."
Duane Thomas's football journey, marked by unprecedented achievements and complex interactions, remains a significant chapter in NFL history. His contributions to the Dallas Cowboys' early success laid the groundwork for the franchise's enduring legacy. As the NFL mourns the loss of a true icon, Thomas's legacy as a trailblazer on and off the field will continue to inspire future generations of football players.