Dallas lost a beloved Cowboy on Sunday when ex-running back Duane Thomas died, according to The Dallas Morning News, which cited team officials. He was 77.
Born and raised in Dallas, Thomas was picked 23rd overall by the Cowboys in the 1970 NFL Draft by way of Lincoln High School and West Texas State.
Via The Dallas Morning News:
After his rookie season, where he led the team in rushing for a Super Bowl champion, Thomas asked for a restructured contract and when it was rejected, he was traded to New England. When Thomas refused to report to the Patriots, then-NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle voided the trade, sending Thomas back to the Cowboys.
Thomas played with “America’s team” from 1970-1971, and he logged snaps with Washington in 1973-74.
Thomas is remembered for helping the Cowboys win their first Super Bowl (VI) over the Miami Dolphins, 24-3, in 39-degree weather.
Thomas rushed 453 times for 2,038 yards and 21 touchdowns to go along with 38 grabs for 297 receiving yards and three more scores throughout his time in the NFL. He rushed for 1,596 yards and 16 touchdowns in two years with the Cowboys.
Todderick Hunt covers Sports and Culture and Recruiting. Have a story idea or a tip? He can be reached at [email protected].
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