Duane Thomas, a former NFL running back celebrated for his pivotal role in the Dallas Cowboys' first Super Bowl championship, has passed away at the age of 77. Thomas' career was marked by exceptional talent and controversial moments, making him a memorable figure in football history.
Pivotal Role in Super Bowl VI
Duane Thomas joined the NFL with a bang, delivering one of the best rookie seasons in the history of the league as he entered the 1971 offseason. His performance was instrumental in helping the Cowboys secure their inaugural Super Bowl appearance. With a league-best 5.3 yards-per-carry average, Thomas set a franchise record that remained unchallenged until Emmitt Smith matched it in 1993.
Thomas' standout moment came during Super Bowl VI, where his efforts were crucial in the Cowboys' 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins. In the game, Thomas rushed for 95 yards on 19 carries, including a 3-yard touchdown run, and made three receptions. His ability to perform under pressure was key to the Cowboys' success, and his contributions helped them secure their sixth consecutive division title that season.
Roger Staubach, the Cowboys' legendary quarterback, once 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."
Controversial Trade and Silent Season
Despite his remarkable on-field performance, Thomas' relationship with the Cowboys' management was fraught with tension. Entering the 1971 season, Thomas sought a pay raise but was met with resistance from the team's management. The disagreement led to Thomas being traded to New England, a move that was ultimately vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle.
Returning to Dallas, Thomas made headlines by remaining silent throughout the entire 1971 season. Nevertheless, his performance did not falter. He led the NFL in rushing touchdowns that year, proving that his silence on the field did not equate to a lack of effort or skill.
Thomas himself later reflected on his demeanor, saying, "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."
End of Cowboys Tenure and Brief Return
Despite his contributions, the Cowboys released Thomas before the 1972 season began. Thomas chose not to participate in the 1972 NFL season but made a brief return to the league by joining Washington. He spent two seasons with the team before retiring from the NFL.
Bob Lilly, one of Thomas' former teammates, expressed high praise for his skill, comparing him to another legendary running back. "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."
Reflecting on an Unmatched Legacy
Almost 35 years after winning the Super Bowl, Thomas reflected on his professional journey 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, hinting at the unique fulfillment his NFL career provided him.
Duane Thomas' career may have been short-lived, but his impact on the game of football was indelible. He remains a figure celebrated for his athletic prowess, his complex personality, and his ability to rise above conflicts to deliver exceptional performances on the field. His legacy will be remembered by fans, teammates, and the football community for years to come.