Recently Jimmy Johnson joined Tom Landry as the only coaches alongside the 19 players and 2 executives in the exclusive group, the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor.
Established in 1975, this esteemed recognition has honored the elite of the elite, celebrating the heroes who have shaped the history of one of the NFL’s most celebrated franchises.
The History of the Ring of Honor
The Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor was conceived by Tex Schramm, the legendary president and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys. It was Schramm’s vision to create a way to honor the great players, coaches, and executives who have contributed to the success of the Cowboys. This vision became a reality on November 23, 1975, when the first honoree, Bob Lilly, had his name unveiled beneath the press box at Texas Stadium during halftime of the Cowboys’ game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Since its inception, the Ring of Honor has been a coveted honor, reserved for those who have made significant contributions to the Dallas Cowboys. As of 2024, the Ring of Honor includes 24 members, each of whom has left a lasting legacy on the team and the NFL.
Famous Inductees
- Bob Lilly – The first player inducted into the Ring of Honor, Lilly was a defensive tackle who played for the Cowboys from 1961 to 1974. He was a seven-time Pro Bowler, a first-team All-Pro selection seven times, and a Super Bowl champion.
- Tom Landry – The legendary head coach of the Cowboys from 1960 to 1988, Landry led the team to two Super Bowl titles, five Super Bowl appearances, and 13 division titles. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in NFL history.
- Roger Staubach – Staubach was the quarterback of the Cowboys from 1969 to 1979 and led the team to two Super Bowl victories. He was a six-time Pro Bowler and a Super Bowl MVP.
- Emmitt Smith – Smith, the NFL’s all-time leading rusher, played for the Cowboys from 1990 to 2002. He was a three-time Super Bowl champion, an eight-time Pro Bowler, and a four-time first-team All-Pro selection.
- Troy Aikman – Aikman quarterbacked the Cowboys from 1989 to 2000 and led the team to three Super Bowl victories. He was a six-time Pro Bowler and a Super Bowl MVP.
- Michael Irvin – Irvin, a wide receiver for the Cowboys from 1988 to 1999, was a key member of the team’s three Super Bowl victories in the 1990s. He was a five-time Pro Bowler and a first-team All-Pro selection in 1991.
- DeMarcus Ware – Ware, the Cowboys’ all-time leader in sacks, was inducted into the Ring of Honor in 2023. He played for the Cowboys from 2005 to 2013 and was a nine-time Pro Bowler and a four-time first-team All-Pro selection.
The Full List
- Bob Lilly – Defensive tackle
- Tom Landry – Head coach
- Roger Staubach – Quarterback
- Tony Dorsett – Running back
- Randy White – Defensive tackle
- Mel Renfro – Defensive back
- Tex Schramm – President/GM
- Troy Aikman – Quarterback
- Emmitt Smith – Running back
- Michael Irvin – Wide receiver
- Drew Pearson – Wide receiver
- Charles Haley – Defensive end
- Rayfield Wright – Off. tackle
- Bob Hayes – Wide receiver
- Gil Brandt – VP
- Cliff Harris – Safety
- Darren Woodson – Safety
- Larry Allen – Offensive guard
- Don Meredith – Quarterback
- Don Perkins – Fullback
- Chuck Howley – Linebacker
- DeMarcus Ware – Defensive end
- Jimmy Johnson – Head coach
Ring of Honor Ceremony
The Ring of Honor ceremony is a special event that takes place during a Dallas Cowboys home game. The honoree is introduced to the crowd, and their name and number are unveiled in AT&T Stadium, where they will be permanently displayed alongside the other members of the Ring of Honor. This ceremony is a moment of pride and celebration for the honoree, their family, and the entire Cowboys organization.
Cowboys Legend Status
The Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor is a testament to the rich history and tradition of one of the NFL’s most storied franchises. It celebrates the achievements of the legends who have shaped the team’s success and serves as a reminder of the greatness that has graced the Cowboys organization.
Reggie Sanderson – We Like Sportz Cowboys writer. Co-host of the “Sons of the Star” Podcast.
Follow him on X @Cowboy_Regg
Photos courtesy of Dallas Morning News, Dallas Cowboys
Use our promo code : WeLikeSportz for 10% off!
WE LIKE SPORTZ SHOW 