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As one of the most iconic franchises in the National Football League (NFL), the Dallas Cowboys have a rich history of producing legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. From Hall of Famers to Super Bowl champions, the Cowboys have had their fair share of heroes donning the star on their helmets. But when it comes to honoring these legendary players, the Cowboys take a unique approach that sets them apart from other teams.
Unlike some franchises that retire jersey numbers in honor of their greatest players, the Cowboys do not follow suit. In fact, they have never retired a single jersey number in their history. This might seem counterintuitive, but it’s actually a reflection of the team’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating its entire legacy, rather than singling out individual players.
Instead of retiring numbers, the Cowboys have developed a tradition of honoring their greatest players through other means. For instance, they have a special “Ring of Honor” that pays tribute to some of the most iconic figures in franchise history. The Ring of Honor is a circular display located outside AT&T Stadium, the team’s home stadium, and features the names and numbers of Cowboys greats who have made significant contributions to the team.
To be eligible for the Ring of Honor, players must meet certain criteria, including winning at least one Super Bowl championship with the Cowboys, being named NFL MVP or Defensive Player of the Year, or earning a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Currently, the Ring of Honor features 17 names, including legendary players like Tony Dorsett, Randy White, and Emmitt Smith.
Another way the Cowboys honor their legendary players is through a unique tradition called “The Star on the 50.” This involves placing a star-shaped marker at midfield during games, signifying where the team’s greatest players have stood in the past. The stars are made of metal and feature the player’s name, number, and years with the team. When a legendary player passes away or reaches a milestone anniversary, the Cowboys will add another star to the display.
The Cowboys also recognize their great players through various fan events and ceremonies throughout the season. For example, they host an annual “Ring of Honor” ceremony at halftime of a home game, where they induct new members into the Ring of Honor and celebrate the achievements of past honorees. The team also holds special events to honor the legacies of their greatest players, such as autograph signings, meet-and-greets, and charity functions.
In conclusion, while the Cowboys may not retire jersey numbers like some other teams do, they have developed a rich tradition of honoring their legendary players in unique and meaningful ways. The Ring of Honor, The Star on the 50, and various fan events all serve as powerful tributes to the men who have made such significant contributions to the team’s history. As the Cowboys continue to build on their legacy, it’s clear that they will always find innovative ways to celebrate and honor those who have come before them.
