Duane Thomas, whose illustrious NFL career left an indelible mark on the game, has passed away at the age of 77. His contributions to the Dallas Cowboys' first Super Bowl championship team and his exceptional skills as a running back remain etched in the annals of football history.
A Rookie Sensation
Thomas burst onto the NFL scene with one of the most memorable rookie seasons. As the 1971 offseason approached, Thomas had already solidified his reputation, helping the Cowboys reach their first Super Bowl with a league-best 5.3 yards-per-carry average. This franchise record remained unchallenged until Emmitt Smith matched it in 1993.
Contract Controversy
After a stellar rookie performance, Thomas sought a pay raise from the Cowboys. However, the team's management did not meet his demands, leading to tension that would impact his relationship with the franchise. This disagreement eventually led to Thomas being traded to the New England Patriots, a move that was ultimately vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle.
Silent Yet Dominant
Despite the off-field drama, Thomas returned to Dallas and played the entire 1971 season in silence. He let his performance on the field speak for itself, leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns and helping the Cowboys capture their sixth consecutive division title. He was instrumental in the Cowboys' playoff run, scoring three touchdowns across three games, including Super Bowl VI.
Super Bowl VI Performance
In Super Bowl VI, Thomas showcased his prowess with a dominating performance — 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, a 3-yard touchdown run, and three receptions. His efforts were crucial in the Cowboys' 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins.
Reflecting on Thomas’s impact, 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."
End of an Era
Despite his on-field success, the Cowboys released Thomas before the 1972 season. He chose not to participate in that year's NFL season. Later, he joined the Washington Redskins, spending two seasons with the team before retiring from professional football.
Lasting Legacy
Reflecting on his career nearly 35 years after his Super Bowl victory, Thomas remarked, "It's a sense of accomplishment that... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet."
Hall of Famer Bob Lilly also shared his admiration for Thomas: "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."
Thomas himself acknowledged the unique nature of his personality and its impact on the team dynamic: "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."
Duane Thomas leaves behind a legacy defined by his unmatched talent, strategic brilliance, and the complexities of his professional journey. His contributions to the sport will be remembered and celebrated by those who cherish the rich history of the NFL.