Delve into the storied past of the Dallas Cowboys and explore the profiles of the best cowboys players of all time Learn about their accomplishments and their lasting legacy.
Introduction to America’s Team
As a lifelong fan of the Dallas Cowboys, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the incredible legacy of this storied franchise. The Cowboys, often referred to as “America’s Team,” have a rich history of gridiron excellence, with a roster filled with legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the sport of football.
In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the annals of Cowboys history and unveil the best players to have ever donned the iconic star. From the iconic quarterbacks who led the team to glory to the dominant running backs, wide receivers, and defensive stalwarts, we will celebrate the individuals who have cemented the Cowboys’ place as one of the most successful and beloved franchises in the NFL.
Top 10 Dallas Cowboys Players of All Time
Roger Staubach
- Position: Quarterback
- Impact: Known for his Hail Mary pass and remarkable comebacks, Staubach’s leadership and playmaking abilities made him a Dallas legend and a symbol of the Cowboys’ success in the 1970s.
Emmitt Smith
- Position: Running Back
- Impact: The NFL’s all-time leading rusher, Smith’s durability, and consistency were instrumental in the Cowboys’ dominance in the 1990s, earning him a revered place in NFL history.
Troy Aikman
- Position: Quarterback
- Impact: With unmatched precision and leadership, Aikman led the Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories in the 1990s, anchoring the team’s legacy as an NFL dynasty.
Bob Lilly
- Position: Defensive Tackle
- Impact: “Mr. Cowboy,” Bob Lilly was a force on the defensive line, known for his strength and agility. His play set the standard for future generations of Cowboys.
Michael Irvin
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Impact: Irvin’s dynamic plays and fiery passion for the game made him a keystone of the Cowboys’ offense during their championship years, embodying the spirit of the team.
Randy White
- Position: Defensive Tackle
- Impact: “The Manster” was feared by quarterbacks across the league for his relentless pursuit and sack ability, making him a defensive legend for the Cowboys.
Larry Allen
- Position: Offensive Guard
- Impact: Allen’s incredible strength and versatility on the offensive line provided the foundation for the Cowboys’ offensive success, earning him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Mel Renfro
- Position: Cornerback/Safety
- Impact: With exceptional speed and agility, Renfro was a lockdown defender in the Cowboys’ secondary, contributing significantly to the team’s defensive prowess.
Deion Sanders
- Position: Cornerback
- Impact: “Prime Time” brought unmatched athleticism and swagger to the Cowboys, revolutionizing the cornerback position with his playmaking abilities.
Tony Dorsett
- Position: Running Back
- Impact: Dorsett’s explosive speed and agility made him one of the most electrifying running backs in NFL history, contributing significantly to the Cowboys’ offensive strategy.
The Legacy of the Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have long been synonymous with success and greatness in the NFL. Since their inception in 1960, the team has won 5 Super Bowl championships, 10 conference titles, and 34 division championships, making them one of the most decorated and successful franchises in league history.
The Cowboys’ sustained excellence can be attributed to a combination of exceptional coaching, front-office leadership, and, most importantly, the incredible talent that has graced the team’s roster over the decades. From the legendary Tom Landry to the innovative Jimmy Johnson, the Cowboys have been blessed with some of the most brilliant minds in the game, who have consistently assembled rosters capable of competing for championships.
Criteria for Selecting the Best Cowboys Players of All Time
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When it comes to determining the best Cowboys players of all time, there are several key criteria that we have taken into consideration:
- Individual Accolades and Awards: We have placed a strong emphasis on players who have been recognized for their outstanding performances, including Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro designations, and individual awards such as MVP, Offensive/Defensive Player of the Year, and Hall of Fame inductions.
- Contributions to Team Success: While individual achievements are important, we have also heavily weighted the impact that players have had on the team’s overall success, including their contributions to championship runs, playoff appearances, and the team’s legacy as one of the most dominant franchises in the NFL.
- Longevity and Consistency: Sustained excellence over the course of a player’s career is a crucial factor in our evaluation, as we aim to recognize those who have consistently performed at the highest level for an extended period.
- Positional Significance and Impact: We have also considered the importance and impact of each position on the team, ensuring that we recognize the players who have revolutionized their respective roles and had a transformative effect on the game.
By considering these criteria, we have compiled a list of the best Cowboys players of all time, each of whom has left an indelible mark on the franchise and the sport of football as a whole.
The Top Quarterbacks in Cowboys History
At the heart of the Dallas Cowboys’ success has been the play of their legendary quarterbacks. From the iconic Roger Staubach to the prolific Tony Romo, the Cowboys have been blessed with some of the most talented signal-callers in NFL history.
Roger Staubach, the Hall of Fame quarterback, is undoubtedly the most revered player in Cowboys history. Affectionately known as “Captain America,” Staubach led the team to two Super Bowl championships and was renowned for his clutch performances and his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs. His leadership, poise under pressure, and playmaking prowess make him the quintessential Cowboys quarterback.
Another iconic figure in the Cowboys’ quarterback lineage is Troy Aikman, who guided the team to three Super Bowl titles in the 1990s. Aikman’s precision passing, decision-making, and ability to elevate the play of those around him were instrumental in the Cowboys’ dynasty during that era. His Hall of Fame career and status as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history cement his place as one of the best to ever wear the Cowboys’ star.
More recently, Tony Romo has cemented his legacy as one of the most prolific passers in Cowboys history. Despite facing criticism and scrutiny throughout his career, Romo’s statistical excellence, clutch performances, and leadership made him a beloved figure among Cowboys fans. While he may not have won a Super Bowl, Romo’s impact on the team’s success over the course of his career cannot be overstated.
Dominant Running Backs that Left Their Mark on the Team
The Dallas Cowboys have been blessed with a long line of dominant running backs who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. From the bruising power of Emmitt Smith to the elusive brilliance of Tony Dorsett, the Cowboys’ backfield has been a source of consistent production and game-changing plays.
Emmitt Smith, the NFL’s all-time leading rusher, is undoubtedly the greatest running back in Cowboys history. His combination of size, strength, and vision, coupled with his tireless work ethic and determination, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Smith’s record-breaking career, which included four rushing titles, three Super Bowl championships, and a Hall of Fame induction, solidify his status as one of the most dominant players to ever don the Cowboys’ star.
Another iconic running back in Cowboys lore is Tony Dorsett, who burst onto the scene in 1977 and quickly established himself as one of the most electrifying players in the league. Dorsett’s blend of speed, agility, and game-breaking ability made him a constant threat, and his 99-yard touchdown run against the Minnesota Vikings remains one of the most iconic plays in NFL history.
In more recent years, the Cowboys have been blessed with the talents of DeMarco Murray, who enjoyed a historic 2014 season in which he led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns. Murray’s physical running style and ability to wear down defenses over the course of a game made him a perfect fit for the Cowboys’ offense, and his contributions to the team’s success cannot be overstated.
The Greatest Wide Receivers to Wear the Star
The Dallas Cowboys have been home to some of the most dominant and iconic wide receivers in NFL history. From the sure-handed precision of Michael Irvin to the athletic brilliance of Dez Bryant, the Cowboys’ receiving corps has been a consistent source of offensive firepower and game-changing plays.
Michael Irvin, the Hall of Fame wide receiver, is undoubtedly the greatest pass-catcher in Cowboys history. Irvin’s combination of size, strength, and route-running ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and his clutch performances and leadership were instrumental in the Cowboys’ dynasty of the 1990s. Irvin’s three Super Bowl championships and status as one of the most dominant receivers of his era cement his place as one of the best to ever play the game.
Another legendary wide receiver in Cowboys lore is Drew Pearson, whose iconic “Hail Mary” catch against the Minnesota Vikings in the 1975 playoffs is forever etched in NFL history. Pearson’s reliability, toughness, and big-play ability made him a crucial part of the Cowboys’ offensive attack, and his contributions to the team’s success cannot be overstated.
In more recent years, Dez Bryant has emerged as one of the most dominant and physical wide receivers in the league. Bryant’s combination of size, strength, and athleticism made him a nightmare for opposing cornerbacks, and his ability to make contested catches and score in the red zone was a crucial part of the Cowboys’ offensive success during his tenure with the team.
Legendary Tight Ends Who Revolutionized the Position
The Dallas Cowboys have also been home to some of the most innovative and influential tight ends in NFL history, players who have helped to redefine the position and elevate the team’s offensive capabilities.
At the forefront of this group is Jason Witten, the future Hall of Famer who spent his entire 16-year career with the Cowboys. Witten’s combination of size, strength, and exceptional route-running ability made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses, and his reliable hands and clutch performances were instrumental in the Cowboys’ offensive success over the course of his career.
Another legendary tight end in Cowboys history is Jay Novacek, who played a crucial role in the team’s dynasty of the 1990s. Novacek’s athleticism, versatility, and ability to create mismatches in the passing game made him a valuable asset in the Cowboys’ offense, and his contributions to the team’s three Super Bowl championships cannot be overstated.
In more recent years, the Cowboys have been blessed with the talents of Dalton Schultz, who has emerged as one of the most well-rounded and productive tight ends in the league. Schultz’s combination of size, speed, and hands has made him a valuable weapon in the Cowboys’ passing attack, and his continued development and impact on the team’s success will be a key factor in the franchise’s future.
Offensive Linemen Who Paved the Way for Success
While the skill position players often garner the majority of the attention, the success of the Dallas Cowboys has been built upon the foundation of their dominant offensive line. The Cowboys have been home to some of the most talented and influential offensive linemen in NFL history, players who have paved the way for the team’s offensive excellence.
At the heart of this group is the legendary offensive line that anchored the Cowboys’ dynasty of the 1990s, which included the likes of Hall of Famers Larry Allen and Rayfield Wright, as well as All-Pro selections such as Erik Williams and Nate Newton. This unit’s combination of size, strength, and technical proficiency created gaping holes for the team’s running game and provided the necessary time and protection for the passing attack to thrive.
In more recent years, the Cowboys have continued to invest heavily in their offensive line, with players like Tyron Smith, Zack Martin, and Travis Frederick establishing themselves as some of the best at their respective positions. These players’ ability to dominate at the point of attack, open up running lanes, and protect the quarterback have been crucial to the team’s offensive success in the 21st century.
The impact of these offensive linemen cannot be overstated, as their contributions to the team’s success have been instrumental in the Cowboys’ status as one of the most dominant franchises in the NFL.
Defensive Stars That Made the Cowboys Feared
While the Dallas Cowboys have been renowned for their offensive prowess, the team has also been home to some of the most dominant and feared defensive players in NFL history. From the relentless pass-rushing of DeMarcus Ware to the ball-hawking abilities of Deion Sanders, the Cowboys’ defensive units have consistently been a source of strength and game-changing plays.
DeMarcus Ware, the Hall of Fame defensive end, is undoubtedly the most dominant defensive player in Cowboys history. Ware’s combination of size, speed, and technical proficiency made him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen, and his ability to disrupt the quarterback and shut down the run game was instrumental in the team’s success during his tenure.
Another iconic defensive player in Cowboys lore is Deion Sanders, the Hall of Fame cornerback whose combination of speed, athleticism, and ball skills made him one of the most dominant cover corners in NFL history. Sanders’ ability to shut down opposing receivers and his game-changing return abilities on special teams made him a crucial part of the Cowboys’ defensive success during the 1990s.
In more recent years, the Cowboys have been blessed with the talents of linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, whose combination of size, speed, and instincts have made him a disruptive force in the team’s defensive scheme. Vander Esch’s ability to make plays all over the field and his potential for continued growth have made him a key part of the Cowboys’ defensive future.
Special Teams Players Who Made a Significant Impact
While the skill position players and offensive/defensive stars often garner the majority of the attention, the Dallas Cowboys have also been home to some of the most impactful special teams players in NFL history. These unsung heroes have played a crucial role in the team’s success, providing game-changing plays and field position advantages that have been instrumental in the team’s championship runs.
One such player is Bill Bates, the Cowboys’ legendary special teams ace who spent his entire 15-year career with the team. Bates’ relentless work ethic, physical play, and leadership on special teams made him a beloved figure among Cowboys fans, and his contributions to the team’s success cannot be overstated.
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Another iconic special teams player in Cowboys history is Dwayne Harris, whose ability to make game-changing plays in the return game and on coverage units made him a valuable asset to the team. Harris’ speed, agility, and instincts allowed him to consistently provide the Cowboys with excellent field position and momentum-shifting plays that often proved to be the difference in close games.
More recently, the Cowboys have been blessed with the talents of Bryan Anger, the team’s Pro Bowl punter whose ability to flip the field and pin opposing offenses deep in their own territory has been a crucial part of the team’s defensive success. Anger’s consistency, precision, and ability to impact the game in subtle yet impactful ways have made him an invaluable member of the Cowboys’ special teams unit.
Honorable Mentions and Players Who Narrowly Missed the List
While the players we have highlighted in this article represent the cream of the crop when it comes to the best Cowboys players of all time, there are numerous other individuals who have made significant contributions to the team’s success and deserve recognition.
Some honorable mentions include Hall of Fame running back Herschel Walker, whose combination of power and speed made him a dominant force during his time with the Cowboys, as well as wide receiver Drew Pearson, whose iconic “Hail Mary” catch against the Minnesota Vikings in the 1975 playoffs cemented his place in Cowboys lore.
Additionally, players like defensive tackle Randy White, linebacker Chuck Howley, and safety Cliff Harris, all of whom were instrumental in the team’s defensive dominance during the 1970s and 1980s, narrowly missed the cut for this list but deserve to be recognized for their outstanding contributions to the Cowboys’ legacy.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Best Cowboys Players of All Time
Whether you’re a lifelong Cowboys fan or a casual observer of the NFL, I encourage you to delve deeper into the rich history of this iconic franchise and to appreciate the incredible talent and accomplishments of the players who have made the Dallas Cowboys one of the most successful and beloved teams in all of sports. Join us in celebrating the legends of America’s Team and the enduring legacy of the best Cowboys players of all time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How are players chosen for this list?
A: Players are selected based on their career achievements, contributions to the Cowboys’ success, individual accolades, and their impact on the NFL.
Q: Are current players included in this list?
A: This list primarily focuses on players who have established a full career with the Cowboys, though current players may be considered for future editions based on their continuing contributions.
Q: Why isn’t [Player Name] included in the top 10?
A: Many players have made significant contributions to the Cowboys, and choosing just ten is challenging. Those not included in the top 10 may still receive recognition in our honorable mentions section, and selections can vary based on the criteria highlighted.
Q: How often is this list updated?
A: The list is reviewed periodically to consider new achievements and career milestones of current and former Cowboys players.
Q: Can fans contribute to or vote on who makes the list?
A: While this edition of the list is curated by our team of experts, we welcome fan engagement and opinions on future lists through social media and fan polls.
