The Best Dallas Cowboys Of All Time
- 1Age: 82
Captain America himself, Roger Staubach sported the star with pride and determination, establishing himself as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. Known for his last-minute heroics and ability to extend plays with his legs, Staubach guided the Cowboys to four Super Bowl appearances, securing victories in Super Bowls VI and XII. He left an indelible mark on the NFL landscape, changing the game as a dual-threat quarterback, and forever cementing his legacy in Dallas Cowboys lore.
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- 2Age: 55
Emmitt Smith's legendary career as the Cowboys' all-time leading rusher saw him burst through defensive lines with a seemingly unstoppable force. A vital cog in the Cowboys' 1990s dynasty, Smith's grit and power propelled the franchise to three Super Bowl titles in four seasons. Remarkably consistent and reliable, his combination of patience, vision, and remarkable footwork galvanized the Cowboys offense, creating a lasting impact on the league and setting a high benchmark for future running backs.
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- 3Age: 84
Dubbed "Mr. Cowboy," Bob Lilly embodied the spirit and dedication of the Dallas Cowboys during his illustrious career. The franchise's first-ever draft pick, Lilly's technical mastery and unwavering pursuit of quarterbacks forged the foundation for the legendary Doomsday Defense. His relentless drive and exceptional ability to shed blockers paved the way for a Super Bowl VI victory, and established a proud tradition of defensive excellence in Dallas.
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- #6 of 77 onThe Greatest Defensive Tackles of All Time
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- 4Age: 52
A force to be reckoned with on the offensive line, Larry Allen bulldozed opposing defenders with raw strength and agility rarely seen at the guard position. Anchoring the offensive line during the Cowboys' 1995 Super Bowl run, Allen's physicality and quickness set the bar for linemen league-wide. His powerful drive blocking and unyielding protection of the pocket made him an indispensable asset to the Dallas offense.
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- 5Age: 70
Explosive and elusive, Tony Dorsett's lightning-fast speed and agility made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. A key component of the Cowboys' 1977 Super Bowl Championship team, Dorsett's jaw-dropping runs and ability to make defenders miss in the open field electrified the Texas faithful. His unique blend of playmaking ability and resilience enabled him to be a catalyst for some of the most memorable moments in Dallas Cowboys history.
More Tony Dorsett- #11 of 197 onThe Best NFL Running Backs of All Time
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- 6Age: 57
The field general of the Cowboys' 1990s dynasty, Troy Aikman's intelligence and pinpoint accuracy provided the spark igniting their high-octane offense. A master at reading defenses and making adjustments, Aikman's precision passing and cool demeanor under pressure helped guide the team to three Super Bowl titles in four years. His leadership on and off the field was instrumental in solidifying the Cowboys' place as "America's Team."
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- 7Age: 71
Randy White's tenacious and ferocious approach to the game earned him the nickname "The Manster," as he wreaked havoc on offensive lines throughout the NFL. A cornerstone of the Doomsday Defense, White's relentless motor and powerful bull rush were instrumental in the Cowboys' Super Bowl XII victory, where he shared MVP honors with fellow lineman Harvey Martin. From the trenches, White's impact on the game transcended the stat sheet, setting the tone for a dominant Dallas defensive front.
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- 8Age: 42
The epitome of consistency and professionalism, Jason Witten's career as a Dallas Cowboy is one for the ages. An incredibly reliable target at tight end, Witten's sure hands and exceptional route running provided security blankets for Cowboys quarterbacks throughout the years. A dedicated team player and leader, Witten's relentless work ethic and passion for the game inspire teammates and fans alike.
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- 9Age: 58
No player epitomized the swagger and confidence of the 1990s Dallas Cowboys quite like Michael Irvin. A dynamic wide receiver, Irvin's combination of physicality and speed allowed him to dominate opposing cornerbacks, fearlessly hauling in passes over the middle and stretching the field vertically. His unmistakable intensity and fiery demeanor fueled the Cowboys' championship runs, as he led the team in receptions, yards, and touchdowns during their historic era of dominance.
More Michael Irvin- #9 of 210 onThe Best Wide Receivers of All Time
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- 10
Drew Pearson
Age: 73Clutch, dependable, and a born leader – that was Drew Pearson in a nutshell. As one of Roger Staubach's favorite targets, Pearson became renowned for his ability to make crucial catches in high-pressure moments. Universally respected for his work ethic and humility, Pearson's contributions to the Cowboys' storied past will forever be cherished by fans and teammates alike.
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- 11Age: 73
Standing at a towering 6'9", Ed "Too Tall" Jones struck fear into the hearts of offenses across the league from his defensive end position. Quick off the snap and possessing an otherworldly wingspan, Jones disrupted passing lanes and swallowed up running backs with ease. A key component of the Cowboys' vaunted Doomsday Defense, Jones' imposing physical presence greatly contributed to the team's defensive prowess.
- 12Dec. at 59 (1942-2002)
An Olympic sprinter turned football star, "Bullet" Bob Hayes revolutionized the wide receiver position with blazing speed and acceleration that left opponents in the dust. His ability to stretch defenses and capitalize on game-breaking plays made him one of the NFL's most feared deep threats. The impact of Hayes' speed transcended the gridiron, fundamentally altering how offenses and defenses approach the game to this day.
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- 13
Darren Woodson
Age: 55The heart and soul of the Cowboys' secondary during their 1990s dynasty, Darren Woodson's versatility and hard-hitting style of play consistently energized the team. Adept at playing both safety positions and able to cover the league's elite receivers, Woodson's skills and football IQ made him invaluable to the team's defensive success. His unrivaled passion and tireless work ethic solidified his status as a fan favorite and franchise legend.
- 14Age: 56
Prime Time embodied the essence of excitement and entertainment, both on and off the field. Arguably the most dominant cornerback to ever lace up the cleats, Deion Sanders' unparalleled athleticism and swagger brought a jolt of electricity to the Cowboys' defense during their 1995 Super Bowl run. Sanders' knack for creating game-changing plays and larger-than-life persona forever endeared him to the Dallas faithful.
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- 15Age: 41
A relentless pass rushing machine, DeMarcus Ware terrorized quarterbacks and single-handedly destroyed game plans with his unique blend of speed and power. Consistently commanding double teams and drawing offenses' utmost attention, Ware's presence created opportunities for his teammates to make plays. Though he didn't hoist the Lombardi Trophy with the Cowboys, his impact on the organization and league-wide respect he garnered undeniably place him among the all-time greats.
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- 16Age: 75
A versatile and intelligent safety, Charlie Waters became a mainstay in the Cowboy's vaunted defense throughout the 1970s. Possessing remarkable instincts and football acumen, Waters' ability to read quarterbacks and deliver timely hits made him a force on the back end. His contributions to the Dallas secondary will always be remembered as integral to the team's sustained success during their formative years.
- 17Age: 61
A key piece of the Cowboys' offensive juggernaut in the 1990s, Jay Novacek's versatility and reliability at tight end made him a favorite target for Troy Aikman. A master of finding soft spots in the defense, his sure hands and underrated athleticism proved invaluable in pivotal moments. Novacek's selfless playstyle and consistent production played an instrumental role in helping the Cowboys secure their three Super Bowl titles in the '90s.
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- 18Age: 60
The epitome of a defensive game-changer, Charles Haley's fierce pass-rushing abilities and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks left opposing offenses scrambling for answers. Arriving from the 49ers in 1992, Haley quickly became the engine driving the Cowboys' defensive turnaround during their championship runs. His explosive first step and uncanny ability to shed blockers made him a nightmare for offensive lines league-wide, solidifying his legacy as a key component of the Cowboys' dynasty.
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- 19Age: 82
A true shutdown corner whose versatility and athleticism allowed him to impact the game in numerous ways, Mel Renfro's contributions on defense and special teams were invaluable for the Cowboys throughout the 1960s and '70s. Possessing great instincts and a flair for making game-changing plays, Renfro's ball-hawking abilities left quarterbacks second-guessing their decisions. As a cornerstone of the legendary Doomsday Defense, Renfro's lockdown coverage and unwavering determination helped elevate the entire team's performance.
- 20Age: 75
A fierce competitor and bone-crunching tackler, Cliff Harris epitomized the hard-hitting style of play that defined the Cowboys' defenses in the 1970s. As an undrafted free agent turned All-Pro safety, Harris' tenacity and nose for the football helped solidify the team's secondary during a remarkable run of success. His impact on the franchise's defensive identity remains a testament to his will and determination on the field.
- 21
Chuck Howley
Age: 87A defensive maestro with a preternatural understanding of the game, Chuck Howley's instincts and football IQ made him a formidable force at the outside linebacker position. Known for his exceptional ability to diagnose plays and disrupt the offense, Howley's unrelenting motor and penchant for clutch performances earned him MVP honors in Super Bowl V, despite the team's loss. His stellar play on the field and unyielding commitment to the game left a lasting impression on the Cowboys' organization.
- 22
Lee Roy Jordan
Age: 83A fiery and aggressive competitor, Lee Roy Jordan's hard-hitting style of play at middle linebacker perfectly embodied the intensity of the Cowboys' Doomsday Defense. Known for his unmatched toughness and keen ability to dissect opposing offenses, Jordan's relentless pursuit of ball carriers struck fear into the hearts of opponents. The embodiment of football passion and grit, Jordan's commitment to excellence helped shape the culture of the Dallas Cowboys during their formative years.
- 23Age: 62
A bulldozing presence on the offensive line, Nate Newton's combination of raw power and surprising agility paved the way for the Cowboys' vaunted rushing attack in the 1990s. Anchoring the left guard position, Newton's tenacity and ability to create running lanes consistently pushed the line of scrimmage in Dallas' favor. As a cornerstone of the Great Wall of Dallas, his contributions to the franchise's historic reign of dominance cannot be overstated.
- 24
Harvey Martin
Dec. at 51 (1950-2001)One half of the historic Super Bowl XII co-MVP tandem alongside Randy White, Harvey Martin's devastating pass rush and relentless pursuit of the quarterback wreaked havoc on opposing offenses. A key figure of the fabled Doomsday Defense, Martin's quickness off the line and tireless work ethic endeared him to fans and teammates alike. His impact on the game far transcended the stat sheet, as he anchored the defensive line during one of the most dominant eras in franchise history.
- 25Age: 33
An anchor on the offensive line since his arrival in 2014, Zack Martin's powerful blocking and steady presence at right guard have made him an indispensable asset to the Cowboys. With a rare blend of strength, intelligence, and agility, Martin consistently paves the way for explosive offensive plays. A tribute to the lineage of exceptional offensive linemen in Cowboys history, Martin continues to solidify his legacy with each passing season.
- 26Age: 58
The epitome of a selfless and dedicated teammate, Daryl "Moose" Johnston's contributions to the Cowboys as a fullback often went unnoticed yet were crucial for the team's success during their championship era. Laying crushing blocks and serving as a reliable short-yardage runner, Johnston's unwavering work ethic and determination created countless opportunities for teammates. His impact on the field and in the locker room exemplified the essence of a true team player.
- 27Age: 62
A fearless and ferocious competitor, Bill Bates became a fan favorite for his tenacious play on special teams and as a hard-hitting safety. A vital cog in the Cowboys' championship runs during the 1990s, Bates' unrelenting pursuit of the football and willingness to sacrifice his body endeared him to fans and teammates alike. His relentless effort and dedication to the game left an indelible mark on the Cowboys organization.
- 28Dec. at 72 (1938-2010)
As one of the first true stars of the Cowboys' organization, Don Meredith's talent and charisma at the quarterback position captivated fans and opponents alike. A gunslinging quarterback known for his clutch performances and powerful arm, Meredith helped establish the Cowboys as legitimate contenders in the NFL during the 1960s. His influence on the team's early years laid the groundwork for the storied history that would follow.
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- 29Age: 80
The mastermind behind the Cowboys' resurgence in the 1990s, head coach Jimmy Johnson's shrewd personnel decisions and innovative coaching style propelled the team to unprecedented heights. A molder of men and an expert motivator, Johnson's leadership was instrumental in cultivating the talent and fostering the camaraderie that would ultimately earn the Cowboys three Super Bowl titles during their dynasty run. His indelible impact on the organization's history will forever be revered by those who donned the star.
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- 30
Tyron Smith
Age: 33A cornerstone of the Cowboys' offensive line since 2011, Tyron Smith's dominant play at left tackle has consistently provided the franchise with a reliable blindside protector. A physical specimen with incredible strength and agility, Smith's ability to stifle pass rushers and bulldoze defenders in the running game is second to none. As a key cog in the team's offensive success, his presence on the line instills confidence in teammates and coaches alike.
