Thomas rushed for 41.6 yds on the ground per game in his career. He has rushed for 21 TD’s. His average yards per carry sits at 4.5 and he toted the ball 453 different times. Duane Thomas ran for 2,038 yards on the ground in 49 games played in his career.
Thomas ran for 0 yds on the ground in 0 games in his last season. His YPC was 0.0 and he toted the ball 0 different times in his final season. He rushed for 0 touchdowns in his last season for 0 yds. Thomas ran for 0.0 yards on the ground per game. Duane Thomas is a name that resonates with fans of the NFL, especially those who remember the league in the 1970s. Known for his incredible talent and complex personality, Duane Thomas was one of the most enigmatic running backs in the history of the NFL. In this article, we’ll explore his journey, his impact on the game, and his legacy in the world of professional football.
Early Life and College Career
Duane Julius Thomas was born on June 21, 1947, in Dallas, Texas. His early years were spent in a city that would later play a significant role in his professional career. Thomas had an exceptional athletic ability from a young age, which he honed during his time at Lincoln High School in Dallas.
Thomas’s football journey continued at West Texas State University, now known as West Texas A&M University. There, he made a name for himself as a powerful and swift running back. His performances on the college gridiron caught the attention of NFL scouts, making him a top prospect for the professional league.
Entering the NFL
In 1970, Duane Thomas was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys as the 23rd overall pick in the NFL Draft. His entry into the league was nothing short of spectacular. As a rookie, Thomas quickly established himself as a key player for the Cowboys. His combination of speed, strength, and agility made him a formidable presence on the field.
During his first season, Thomas led the Cowboys in rushing with 803 yards and scored five touchdowns. His impressive performance earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. Despite his success, Thomas was known for being uncommunicative and reserved, often keeping to himself and avoiding the media.
The 1971 Season and the Super Bowl
The 1971 season was a defining moment in Duane Thomas’s career. He was instrumental in leading the Cowboys to their first Super Bowl appearance. Thomas’s playoff performance was exceptional, rushing for 278 yards and scoring two touchdowns. In Super Bowl VI, he played a crucial role in the Cowboys’ victory over the Miami Dolphins, rushing for 95 yards and a touchdown.
However, off the field, Thomas’s relationship with the Cowboys management was strained. Contract disputes and disagreements with team officials marred his time with the team. Despite his on-field success, Thomas’s silence and aloofness often overshadowed his achievements.
Controversies and Trades
After the 1971 season, Thomas’s conflicts with the Cowboys management reached a breaking point. He was traded to the New England Patriots, but the trade was voided, and he found himself back with the Cowboys. However, his relationship with the team remained tense, and he was eventually traded to the San Diego Chargers in 1972.
Thomas’s time with the Chargers was short-lived, and he soon found himself out of the league. His career took a brief turn when he joined the Washington Redskins in 1973. With the Redskins, Thomas showed glimpses of his former brilliance, but his time in the NFL was winding down.
Legacy and Impact
Duane Thomas’s NFL career was marked by both brilliance and controversy. Despite his relatively short time in the league, his impact was significant. He was a player who could change the course of a game with his explosive runs and was a key figure in the Cowboys’ early success.
Thomas’s career stats reflect his prowess on the field. Over his brief but impactful career, he accumulated 2,038 rushing yards and scored 21 touchdowns. His playoff performances were particularly noteworthy, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Off the field, Thomas’s enigmatic personality and disputes with management left a lasting impression. He was a player who challenged the norms of the time, questioning the treatment of players and the business side of the NFL. His stance on player rights and his demand for respect paved the way for future generations of athletes.
Post-NFL Life
After leaving the NFL, Duane Thomas faded from the public eye. He stayed away from the media and maintained a private life, much like he did during his playing days. Despite his withdrawal from the public scene, his legacy as one of the most talented running backs of his era remains intact.
In retrospect, Thomas’s career serves as a reminder of the complexities athletes can face both on and off the field. His story is one of triumph, conflict, and the quest for respect and recognition.
Conclusion
Duane Thomas’s journey through the NFL is a fascinating tale of talent, mystery, and the challenges of professional sports. Though his career was brief, his impact on the game and his role in the history of the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL cannot be overstated. For those who watched him play, Thomas remains an unforgettable figure, a running back whose legacy endures long after his time on the field has ended.