Remembering a Dallas Legend
Longtime Dallas Cowboys offensive lineman Tom Rafferty has passed away at the age of 70. His daughter, Rachel Powers, confirmed to The Dallas Morning News’ Kevin Sherrington that Rafferty had been hospitalized since May.
Rafferty was a key figure in Cowboys history, known for bridging the eras of quarterbacks Roger Staubach and Troy Aikman. His career began in 1976 as a reserve guard, but by his second season, he had earned a starting role on the offensive line.
A Career of Durability and Leadership
Rafferty became the Cowboys’ full-time right guard during their 1977 Super Bowl-winning season, starting all three playoff games. He held that position until 1980, before moving to center in 1981, a role he maintained until his retirement in 1989. That final season also marked the start of Troy Aikman’s career.
Over the course of his career, Rafferty played in over 200 regular season games and participated in nine different postseason runs.
Honored by the Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys released a statement on Friday to honor Rafferty’s legacy and character: “[Tom Rafferty] was a shining example of being a great, trusted teammate and champion, always approaching the game and his role by doing the right thing.”
A Place in NFL History
Rafferty’s contributions were not only defined by his longevity but also by memorable moments. He played a crucial role in one of the NFL’s most iconic plays, Tony Dorsett’s 99-yard touchdown run in 1983.
Wearing No. 64, Rafferty cleared a massive opening in the line, giving Dorsett the room to make history against the Minnesota Vikings. It was the first rushing touchdown of that length in NFL history. Tom Rafferty leaves behind a legacy of toughness, consistency, and championship pedigree, forever etched into the fabric of the Dallas Cowboys.
