Duane Thomas, the legendary former NFL running back, has passed away at the age of 77. Thomas was instrumental in the Dallas Cowboys' early success, significantly contributing to their first Super Bowl championship. His groundbreaking performance and dynamic playstyle have left an indelible mark on the history of the sport.
Early Impact and Rookie Brilliance
Thomas burst onto the NFL scene with one of the most remarkable rookie seasons in the league's history. Entering the 1971 offseason, his potential was undeniable. During the 1970 season, Thomas's prowess was clearly demonstrated as he averaged a league-best 5.3 yards per carry. This remarkable feat remained unmatched within the franchise until the great Emmitt Smith matched it in 1993.
Despite his phenomenal performance, Thomas faced challenges with the Cowboys' management. He sought a pay raise entering the 1971 season, but his demands were not met, leading to a strained relationship with the team. This friction resulted in an attempted trade to New England, which was ultimately vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle.
Silent Star: 1971 Season
Returning to Dallas, Thomas chose silence as his form of protest throughout the 1971 season. Despite this unusual stance, his performance on the field was unaffected. Thomas led the NFL in rushing touchdowns that season, playing a pivotal role in the Cowboys securing their sixth consecutive division title. His silent determination and unmatched skill were pivotal as he scored three touchdowns across three games during Dallas' playoff run, culminating in their victory in Super Bowl VI.
In Super Bowl VI, Thomas delivered a standout performance with 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, a 3-yard touchdown run, and three receptions. His efforts contributed significantly to the Cowboys' 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins, cementing his legacy in the world of professional football.
Career After Dallas
Despite his contributions, the Cowboys released Thomas before the start of the 1972 season. Following this, Thomas did not participate in the 1972 NFL season, leaving fans and analysts speculating about the reasons behind his absence.
Thomas eventually joined the Washington Redskins, where he spent two seasons before retiring from the NFL. His career, though shorter than many of his contemporaries, left an unforgettable impact on fans and the sport itself.
Legacy and Reflection
Reflecting on his legacy nearly 35 years after winning the Super Bowl, Thomas acknowledged the sense of accomplishment he felt. "It's a sense of accomplishment that ... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet," he remarked, illustrating the continued significance of his achievements in his life.
A Teammate's Tribute
Former teammates and contemporaries were quick to praise Thomas's talent and contributions. Hall of Fame quarterback Roger Staubach reminisced, "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."
Fellow Hall of Famer Bob Lilly echoed these sentiments with a vivid description of Thomas's prowess, "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 offered a candid reflection on his role within the team, stating, "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 words provide a glimpse into his complex relationship with both his teammates and the management.
Duane Thomas's legacy is one of resilience and outstanding athleticism. His journey through professional football, marked by both triumphs and challenges, continues to inspire new generations of athletes. As the sports world mourns his passing, his contributions to the game and his remarkable story will not be forgotten.