theathleticuk
The Dallas Cowboys organization announced Tuesday that Cornell Green, a former defensive back and integral part of the team's famed Doomsday Defense, has died at the age of 86. Green's passing marks the loss of one of the most iconic figures in the franchise's storied history.
Green's journey to NFL stardom was highly unconventional. He was an All-American basketball player at Utah State University and never played organized football in college. In 1960, as a sophomore forward, he earned Skyline Conference MVP honors and set numerous school records. His 324 free throw attempts and 227 free throws made during the 1961-62 season remain single-season records at Utah State, and his 1,067 career rebounds are still the most in Aggies history. Additionally, his 403 rebounds in the 1959-60 season stand as a single-season school record. Utah State retired his No. 24 jersey and inducted him into its Hall of Fame.
Despite being selected by the Chicago Zephyrs (now the Washington Wizards) in the fifth round of the 1962 NBA Draft, Green chose to pursue a different athletic path. He joined the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 1962, just three years after the franchise's inception. Legendary coach Tom Landry deployed Green at cornerback, where he immediately excelled, earning NFL All-Rookie team honors that same year.
By 1963, Green had become a starter for Dallas and recorded seven interceptions, a career high he would later equal in 1967. His performance at cornerback earned him Pro Bowl selections in 1965, 1966, and 1967, as well as First-Team All-Pro honors in 1966 and 1967. He was named Second-Team All-Pro cornerback in 1968 and 1969.
In 1970, Green transitioned from cornerback to safety, and he continued to thrive. He was selected to the Pro Bowl at his new position in 1971 and 1972, and he helped the Cowboys capture the Super Bowl in the 1971 season, the only championship of his career.
Beyond his talent, which was a cornerstone of the Doomsday Defense, Green was renowned for his durability. Over his 13 NFL seasons, he never missed a game, appearing in all 14 games each year from 1962 until his retirement after the 1974 season.
In a statement released Wednesday, the Cowboys expressed their sorrow: "We are sad to share news of the passing of Cowboys Legend Cornell Green this morning. Cornell was a true trailblazer, having never played football in college, yet becoming a multi-time Pro Bowler, All Pro and NFL Super Bowl Champion with the Cowboys, playing defensive back from 1962 to 1974. He was a member of the 25th Anniversary Cowboys Team as well. Cornell remarkably never missed a game in 13 seasons, becoming one of the best and most dependable teammates to ever wear the star. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."
Over his 182-game career, Green recorded 34 interceptions, returning two for touchdowns, and recovered seven fumbles, also returning two for scores.
Key Analysis
Cornell Green's legacy is defined by his remarkable transition from college basketball to professional football, a feat rarely seen at the highest level. His ability to adapt and excel in the NFL without prior football experience underscores his exceptional athleticism and work ethic. As a member of the Doomsday Defense, Green contributed to one of the most feared defensive units in NFL history, and his iron-man streak of 13 seasons without missing a game remains a testament to his durability and reliability. His induction into the Cowboys' 25th Anniversary Team further cements his status as one of the franchise's all-time greats.
Originally reported by theathleticuk.