America’s team. The Boys. Big D. However you refer to them, Dallas Cowboys football is back.
Our beloved NFL team kicks off on Sunday, Sept. 8 at Cleveland on FOX Sports, marking the start of the 2024-25 season. With weapons like quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, and linebacker Micah Parsons, Dallas has lofty expectations and big goals. It could be a historic year, so let’s look back on all the history that has led to 60+ years of gridiron excellence.
When was the team founded?
1960, and it wasn’t pretty. The team failed to win a single game, finishing 0-11-1. There was also a Dallas Texans in 1952, but they eventually became the Kansas City Chiefs (more on that here).
Where did they previously play?
The first 11 seasons of Cowboys’ football was played in the Cotton Bowl. Then they moved to Texas Stadium for 39 years.
Who are the all-time statistical leaders?
Stats per Pro Football Reference.
- Tony Romo (2003-16) is the passing leader with 34,183 career yards.
- Emmitt Smith (1990-02) is the rushing leader with 17,182 career yards.
- Jason Witten (2003-17 + 2019) is the receiving leader with 12,977 career yards.
- Emmitt Smith (1990-02) is the scoring leader with 986 points, which is roughly 164 total touchdowns.
- Tom Landry (1960-88) is the winningest coach with a record of 250-162-6.
When was their first Super Bowl win?
1972 vs. Miami Dolphins. The final score was 24-3, which set a still-standing record for fewest points by an opponent.
How was the team name decided?
They were originally supposed to be the “Steers,” but that didn’t stick around and they actually landed on “Rangers.” Unfortunately, at that time, a minor league baseball team existed in the area by the same name, so the team changed yet again, this time to the iconic name we use today.
