Duane Thomas, the enigmatic former NFL running back known for his brilliance on the field and his complex personality off it, has passed away at the age of 77. Thomas' journey through the National Football League was marked by outstanding performances and notable confrontations, leaving an indelible mark on the Dallas Cowboys' storied history.
A Pivotal Player for the Cowboys
Duane Thomas played a crucial role in the Dallas Cowboys' ascent to their first Super Bowl championship. Entering the NFL with one of the most remarkable rookie seasons to date, Thomas quickly established himself as a key asset for the team. His performance in the 1971 offseason solidified his reputation as a formidable running back in the league.
With a league-best 5.3 yards-per-carry average, Thomas not only set a franchise record but also helped propel the Cowboys to their inaugural Super Bowl. This impressive franchise record remained unchallenged until Emmitt Smith matched it in 1993. His contributions were instrumental in leading the Cowboys to their sixth consecutive division title, showcasing his consistent impact on the field.
Controversy and Silence in 1971
Despite his on-field success, Thomas' time with the Cowboys was not without its challenges. Entering the 1971 season, Thomas sought a pay raise, a request that was met with resistance from the team management. The ensuing disagreement led to Thomas being traded to the New England Patriots, a move that was ultimately vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle, keeping Thomas with the Cowboys.
Thomas returned to the Cowboys in silence for the entire 1971 season, a period during which he let his exceptional play speak volumes. He led the NFL in rushing touchdowns that season, underscoring his calibre as a game-changing player.
A Super Bowl VI Hero
In the playoffs, Thomas demonstrated his value once more. Scoring touchdowns across three games, including the Super Bowl VI, Thomas proved indispensable. His performance in Super Bowl VI was nothing short of stellar, accumulating 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, scoring a crucial 3-yard touchdown run, and adding three receptions.
The Cowboys emerged victorious in Super Bowl VI, defeating the Miami Dolphins 24-3. Thomas' contributions, both on and off the scoreboard, were a testament to his role in the team's success.
A Brief, Brilliant Career
Despite his vital contributions, the Cowboys released Thomas before the onset of the 1972 season. Thomas did not participate in the 1972 NFL season but later joined the Washington Redskins, where he spent two seasons before retiring from professional football.
Reflecting on his legacy nearly 35 years after his Super Bowl win, Thomas shared insights into his complex personality and time with the Cowboys. "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," Thomas noted, highlighting his dedication to the team's success despite interpersonal conflicts.
Legacy of a Unique Talent
Thomas' former teammates remembered him fondly. Roger Staubach praised him saying, "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 added, "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…Almost like music."
Thomas' sense of accomplishment on the football field remained unmatched. "It's a sense of accomplishment that ... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet," Thomas reflected, underscoring the deep impact of his football career on his life.
Duane Thomas will be remembered as a brilliant yet tragic figure in the annals of NFL history, a player whose talent and tenacity left an indelible impact on the game and whose legacy will endure in the memories of those who witnessed his greatness. His story serves as a reminder of the complexities behind the lives of professional athletes and the undying passion for the game that defines their careers.