nypost
The Dallas Cowboys organization confirmed on Wednesday that Cornell Green, a standout defensive back who earned five Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl ring during a 13-season tenure with the franchise, has died at 86. The team did not disclose a cause of death.
Green was a cornerstone of the celebrated Doomsday Defense, the unit that propelled Dallas to NFL prominence in the 1960s and early 1970s. A two-time First-Team All-Pro, he appeared in two Super Bowls, including the Cowboys' 24-3 triumph over the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VI following the 1971 season.
In a statement, the Cowboys mourned the loss of a "true trailblazer" who never played football in college yet became a multi-time Pro Bowler, All-Pro, and Super Bowl champion while patrolling the secondary from 1962 to 1974. The team also noted his inclusion on the 25th Anniversary Cowboys Team and highlighted his remarkable durability, as he never missed a game in 13 seasons, calling him one of the best and most dependable teammates ever to wear the star. The organization extended its thoughts and prayers to his family.
Green's path to the NFL was unconventional: he played only one season of high school football and none in college. Instead, he was a two-time All-American basketball player at Utah State, where he was later enshrined in the school's Hall of Fame. After being selected by the Chicago Zephyrs in the 1962 NBA draft, he accepted an invitation to the Cowboys' training camp that same year and earned a roster spot.
Over his 13 professional seasons, Green started 167 of 168 contests and led the Cowboys in interceptions four times. His 34 career interceptions remain tied for fifth in franchise history. He also played in two NFL Championship Games and Super Bowls V and VI, winning the latter.
Following his retirement after the 1974 season, Green transitioned to scouting for the Cowboys and later the Denver Broncos, where he was honored as the AFC Scout of the Year in 2010. In 1984, his playing career was recognized with a spot on the Cowboys' 25th Anniversary Team.
Key Analysis
Green's legacy is defined by his improbable journey from college basketball standout to NFL mainstay, underscoring the value of athletic versatility and determination. His durability—never missing a game in 13 seasons—and his knack for timely interceptions made him a vital component of one of football's most storied defenses. Beyond his on-field contributions, Green's later success as a scout demonstrates a lifelong commitment to the game, further cementing his place in Cowboys history.
Originally reported by nypost.