Duane Thomas, a former NFL running back renowned for his time with the Dallas Cowboys, has passed away at the age of 77. His career, though brief, was marked by extraordinary talent and significant accomplishments that left a lasting legacy in professional football.
A Bright Start
Thomas burst onto the scene with one of the most remarkable rookie seasons in NFL history as he entered the 1971 offseason. His impact on the field was immediate and profound, quickly establishing him as a pivotal player for the Dallas Cowboys. Thomas was instrumental in helping the Cowboys reach their first-ever Super Bowl by posting a league-best 5.3 yards-per-carry average—a franchise record that remained unmatched until Emmitt Smith equaled it in 1993.
Contract Dispute and Uncertain Future
Despite his phenomenal performance, Thomas found himself entangled in a dispute with Cowboys management over a pay raise entering the 1971 season. This disagreement led to a trade with New England, which was subsequently vetoed by NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle. The discord had a profound effect on Thomas, who adopted a remarkable stance of silence throughout the entire season upon his return to Dallas.
Unparalleled Contribution to the Team
Despite his silence, Thomas's contribution on the field was anything but muted. Leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns during the 1971 season, he played a crucial role in the Cowboys securing their sixth consecutive division title. His performance in the postseason was nothing short of spectacular. In Dallas' playoff run, Thomas scored three touchdowns across three games, including a crucial one in Super Bowl VI.
In Super Bowl VI, Thomas showcased his incredible skills with 95 rushing yards on 19 carries, a 3-yard touchdown run, and three receptions. His efforts helped secure a decisive 24-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins, cementing the Cowboys' place in football history.
An Abrupt and Bittersweet End
Despite his contributions to the team's success, the Cowboys released Thomas before the 1972 season began. He chose not to participate in the 1972 NFL season and eventually joined Washington, where he spent the final two seasons of his career before retiring from the NFL.
Reflections and Legacy
In the years following his retirement, Thomas often reflected on his legacy and the impact he had on the game. "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," remarked former teammate Roger Staubach, underscoring the respect Thomas commanded among his peers.
Bob Lilly, another Cowboys legend, had similar praises: "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 insight into his complex character and the challenges he faced. "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," he once reflected. His enigmatic presence, both on and off the field, added to the legend that surrounded him.
Looking back on his career, Thomas expressed a profound sense of accomplishment, stating, "It's a sense of accomplishment that ... like I haven't had anything to replace it yet."
Duane Thomas's death marks the end of a unique chapter in NFL history. His contributions to the Dallas Cowboys and the league as a whole continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans and fellow players alike. His legacy, defined by remarkable achievements and a distinct persona, will forever be a part of football lore.