On Sunday, August 4, 2024, Duane Thomas, a pivotal figure in the Dallas Cowboys’ initial Super Bowl triumph and a player known for his puzzling persona, passed away at 77, as confirmed by the Cowboys. He died of a pulmonary embolism.
Thomas, born and brought up in Dallas, Texas, showcased extraordinary football talent from a young age. He played college football at West Texas State University and was drafted by the Cowboys in the first round of the 1970 NFL Draft. His debut season was impressive, as he rushed for 803 yards and secured the NFL Rookie of the Year title. Thomas was a key figure in the Cowboys’ road to Super Bowl V, though they were narrowly defeated by the Baltimore Colts.
His career peaked during the 1971 season when he scored 11 rushing touchdowns, the highest in the NFL, and played a crucial role in the Cowboys’ first Super Bowl win, a 24-3 victory against the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VI. In that match, Thomas’s 95 rushing yards and a touchdown proved crucial to the Cowboys’ victory. He was the first player to score a touchdown at Texas Stadium and was named on the All-Pro team.
However, Thomas’s career was not without controversy. He sought a contract renegotiation, which was denied by the Cowboys, leading to a trade to the New England Patriots. However, then-NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle canceled the trade, resulting in Thomas rejoining the Cowboys. During the 1971 season, Thomas chose not to communicate with teammates, coaches, or the press, adding to his enigmatic image.
Despite the controversy, teammates admired Thomas’s skills and resolve. Hall of Fame quarterback Roger Staubach described Thomas as a player who gave his all, excelling in blocking, running, and smart play, with few errors. Fellow Cowboys legend, Bob Lilly, drew comparisons between Thomas and Jim Brown, noting Thomas’s ability to evade defenders with similar elusive moves.
Despite his success on the field, Thomas’s relationship with the Cowboys soured. Prior to the 1972 season, he was traded to the San Diego Chargers but refused to report, resulting in his suspension. Thomas ultimately played two seasons for the Washington Redskins before retiring from the NFL with a career total of 2,038 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns.
Thomas’s legacy is multifaceted. He is remembered as a unique blend of talent and individuality, with significant contributions to the Cowboys’ success, and for his defiance of professional football’s conventional norms. His narrative continues to resonate with those intrigued by the complex interplay of talent and personality in sports.
