Dallas Cowboys: 30 greatest players in franchise history

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23 Nov 1995: A number of Dallas Cowboys helmets sit on the goal line during the Cowboys 24-12 win over the Kansas City Chiefs at Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bahr/ALLSPORT /

(1961-1968). Don Perkins. 25. player. 123. . Fullback

Despite only playing in the NFL for eight seasons, fullback Don Perkins left an indelible mark on both the Dallas Cowboys franchise and football as a whole.

Signed by the Cowboys during their inaugural season in the NFL, Perkins was sidelined in 1960 due to suffering a broken foot during training camp. His rookie year did not start until 1961, and boy did he make up for lost time.

As a fullback mind you, Perkins rushed for 815 yards and four touchdowns, earning himself the NFL Rookie of the Year award and an invite to the Pro Bowl. The following season, he rushed for 945 yards and seven scores, earning his first of three All-Pro nominations.

In a short eight-year career, Perkins rushed for 6,217 yards and 42 touchdowns. He also earned a whopping six Pro Bowl nominations. Sitting third on the franchise’s all-time rushing list, Perkins is a member of the Cowboys Ring of Honor and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.

Although Don Perkins may not have the Super Bowl rings many of the other Dallas Cowboys on this list do, his presence on those early teams paved the way for all the others. And the fact he did so much in such a short playing career is only a credit to how talented Perkins actually was.

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