Duane Thomas, a former NFL running back renowned for his tenure with the Dallas Cowboys, has passed away at the age of 77. Known for his electrifying performances and significant contributions, Thomas was a key figure in the Cowboys' journey to their first Super Bowl championship.
A Remarkable Career
Thomas burst onto the NFL scene with one of the most outstanding rookie seasons in the league's history, entering the 1971 offseason as a formidable force. His prowess on the field helped the Cowboys secure their inaugural Super Bowl berth, a feat underpinned by his league-best 5.3 yards-per-carry average—a franchise record that stood until Emmitt Smith matched it in 1993.
Despite his on-field successes, Thomas' career was not without its controversies. Entering the 1971 season, he sought a pay raise from the Cowboys, a request that team management ultimately refused. This disagreement led to Thomas being traded to the New England Patriots, although the move was vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle.
Silence Speaks Volumes
Returning to the Cowboys for the 1971 season, Thomas chose to remain silent throughout the campaign. Despite his silence, his performance on the field spoke volumes. He led the NFL in rushing touchdowns that season and played a crucial role in helping Dallas clinch their sixth consecutive division title. In a remarkable display of skill, Thomas scored three touchdowns across three games during the Cowboys' playoff run, culminating in a standout performance in Super Bowl VI.
In that decisive game, Thomas amassed 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, scored a 3-yard touchdown run, and contributed with three receptions. The Cowboys triumphed over the Miami Dolphins with a 24-3 victory in Super Bowl VI, thanks in no small part to Thomas' efforts.
End of an Era
Despite his contributions, the Cowboys released Thomas before the start of the 1972 season. Consequently, he did not participate in that year's NFL season. His career resumed when he joined the Washington team, where he played for two additional seasons before retiring from professional football.
Years later, Thomas reflected on his legacy with a sense of accomplishment. "It's a sense of accomplishment that ... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet," he remarked, underscoring the lasting impact of his football career.
Legacy and Tributes
Thomas' former teammates hold his memory in high regard. Roger Staubach commemorated Thomas' dedication and intelligence on the field, stating, "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."
Bob Lilly echoed these sentiments, drawing comparisons to legendary running back Jim Brown. "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," Lilly recalled. "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."
Thomas himself acknowledged the complexities of his personality and its impact on the team dynamics. "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 reflected.
Duane Thomas' legacy in the NFL is one of profound talent and compelling contradiction. His contributions to the game, particularly his role in the Dallas Cowboys' first Super Bowl win, secured his place in football history. As the sports world mourns his passing, his storied career remains a testament to his exceptional abilities and indelible impact on the game.