Duane Thomas, the former NFL running back known for his exceptional prowess on the field and his pivotal role in the Dallas Cowboys' first Super Bowl championship, has passed away at the age of 77. Renowned for his remarkable athletic abilities and complex personality, Thomas left an indelible mark on the Cowboys and the NFL during his tenure.
A Rookie Sensation
Duane Thomas delivered one of the most memorable rookie seasons in NFL history, setting the stage for his critical role in the Cowboys' ascent to their inaugural Super Bowl. As the 1971 offseason approached, Thomas was already recognized for his extraordinary talents, having achieved a league-leading 5.3 yards-per-carry average. This feat remained a franchise record until Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith matched it over two decades later in 1993.
A Season of Silent Brilliance
Despite his on-field success, Thomas sought a pay raise from the Cowboys entering the 1971 season. However, the management declined his demands, leading to tensions that saw Thomas nearly traded to New England—a move ultimately vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle. Nonetheless, Thomas returned to Dallas and notably remained silent throughout the entire season, letting his performance speak volumes. He led the NFL in rushing touchdowns and was instrumental in the Cowboys securing their sixth consecutive division title.
Super Bowl VI Heroics
Thomas' contributions during the Cowboys' playoff run were nothing short of spectacular. Scoring three touchdowns across three playoff games, including a 3-yard touchdown run in Super Bowl VI, Thomas played a critical role in Dallas' resounding 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins. In that Super Bowl, he amassed 95 rushing yards on 19 carries and added three receptions, solidifying his legacy as a clutch performer under the brightest lights.
The End of a Dallas Tenure
Despite his contributions, the Cowboys released Thomas before the 1972 season began. Thomas then took a hiatus from the NFL, not participating in the 1972 season. He returned to the league later, joining Washington, where he spent two seasons before retiring from professional football.
Reflections on a Complex Legacy
Thomas' career was marked not only by his on-field achievements but also by a personality that often clashed with traditional team dynamics. Reflecting on his career many years later, Thomas noted, "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." His candid acknowledgment of his complex nature adds depth to an already fascinating legacy.
Teammates and peers frequently lauded Thomas' exceptional skills. Former Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach once remarked, "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." Staubach's words resonate with the picture of a committed and intelligent athlete, dedicated to his craft.
Bob Lilly, another Cowboys legend, compared Thomas' moves to those of the great 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. 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," observed Lilly. His vivid recollections paint a picture of a player whose talent left an unforgettable impression on those who watched him.
For Thomas himself, the sense of accomplishment from winning the Super Bowl remained unparalleled. He once reflected, "It's a sense of accomplishment that ... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet." His words underscore the unique fulfillment and pride that his football achievements brought him, a feeling that lasted throughout his life.
The passing of Duane Thomas marks the end of a remarkable chapter in NFL history. His contributions to the game, both in terms of his on-field prowess and the compelling human story behind his career, will be remembered and celebrated by football fans and historians alike. Thomas may have often been a man of few words, but his actions on the field spoke volumes and his legacy will endure for generations to come.