Duane Thomas, the former NFL running back and significant contributor to the Dallas Cowboys' storied history, has passed away at the age of 77. Widely recognized for his impact on the Cowboys' first Super Bowl championship team, Thomas carved out an indelible legacy during his relatively brief yet memorable career.
A Stellar Start
Thomas burst onto the NFL scene with one of the most remarkable rookie seasons in league history. By the 1971 offseason, he had already established himself as a game-changing talent. His performance was a catalyst for the Cowboys, helping the team earn its first trip to the Super Bowl. Thomas' average of 5.3 yards per carry led the league and set a franchise record that stood until Emmitt Smith matched it in 1993. His contributions were not just numerically impressive but also pivotal in defining the team's success.
Contract Disputes and Silence
Despite his undeniable talent, Thomas sought a pay raise from the Cowboys ahead of the 1971 season. However, team management did not assent to his demands, leading to tensions. This friction culminated in a trade to the New England Patriots, which was subsequently vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle. Thomas returned to Dallas but chose to stay silent throughout the entire 1971 season, a unique approach that did not impede his exceptional on-field performance.
Even in silence, Thomas led the NFL in rushing touchdowns during the 1971 season, instrumental in securing the Cowboys' sixth consecutive division title. His playoff heroics included scoring three touchdowns across three games, a feat that underscored his clutch capabilities.
Super Bowl VI Heroics
In Super Bowl VI, Thomas delivered a standout performance with 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, a 3-yard touchdown run, and three receptions. This effort was crucial in Dallas' 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins. His contributions were celebrated by teammates and coaches alike, making Thomas an enduring figure in the Cowboys' lore.
"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," reflected Hall of Fame quarterback Roger Staubach, capturing the essence of Thomas' commitment and intelligence on the field. Defensive stalwart Bob Lilly added, "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."
A Brief Hiatus and a Return
Following his Super Bowl success, Thomas' career took an unexpected turn as the Cowboys released him before the 1972 season began. He did not play that season, an absence that left many wondering about his next move. Thomas eventually joined Washington, where he spent two seasons before retiring from the NFL.
Legacy and Reflection
Years later, Thomas reflected on his time in the NFL and his lasting impact. "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 noted, offering insight into the complexities of his career and personal experiences.
In contemplating his achievements, Thomas remarked, "It's a sense of accomplishment that ... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet." This introspective quote speaks volumes about the profound sense of fulfillment he derived from his time on the field, a sentiment that resonates deeply with fans and former teammates alike.
Duane Thomas' career may have been marked by both brilliance and controversy, but his impact on the game remains unequivocal. His passing is a moment for reflection on a player who, in his prime, was nothing short of extraordinary.