Duane Thomas, a former NFL running back who played a pivotal role in the Dallas Cowboys' first Super Bowl championship team, has passed away at the age of 77. Known for his exceptional talent and impactful playing style, Thomas left an indelible mark on the sport during his time in the league.
Thomas burst onto the NFL scene with one of the best rookie seasons in history, laying the groundwork for an incredible career. By the end of the 1971 offseason, he had already set a high standard, helping lead the Cowboys to their first Super Bowl appearance. His league-best 5.3 yards-per-carry average that season remained a franchise record until NFL legend Emmitt Smith matched it in 1993. This remarkable feat was a testament to Thomas's ability to break defenses and make significant progress with every carry.
Early Impact and Challenges
Despite his success on the field, Thomas faced challenges off it. As he entered the 1971 season, he sought a pay raise from the Cowboys, but the team management was unwilling to meet his demands. This led to a significant disagreement that resulted in Thomas being traded to the New England Patriots. However, the move was vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle, forcing Thomas to return to Dallas.
Thomas's return was marked by a unique silence; he stayed completely silent throughout the entire 1971 season. Despite this, his performance on the field did not waver. He led the NFL in rushing touchdowns that year and played a crucial role in leading the Cowboys to their sixth consecutive division title.
The Road to Super Bowl VI
Thomas proved to be indispensable during the Cowboys' run to Super Bowl VI. Scoring three touchdowns across three playoff games, including the Super Bowl itself, Thomas showcased his ability to perform under pressure. In the championship game against the Miami Dolphins, he had 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, a 3-yard touchdown run, and three receptions, leading the Cowboys to a 24-3 victory.
Reflecting on his teammate's contributions, Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach 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." This sentiment was echoed by Bob Lilly, who described Thomas's playing style with admiration. "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."
Post-Super Bowl Career and Legacy
Despite his success, Thomas's relationship with the Cowboys came to an abrupt end before the start of the 1972 season, when he was released by the team. He chose not to participate in the 1972 NFL season but eventually joined Washington, spending two seasons with the team before retiring from the NFL.
Years later, Thomas reflected on his NFL journey and the impact he had on the game. "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 explained, offering insight into the complexities of his career. Addressing the significance of his achievements, he added, "It's a sense of accomplishment that ... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet."
Thomas's legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and former teammates alike. His influence on the game and his contribution to the Cowboys' early success remain etched in the memories of those who witnessed his remarkable talent.