Cowboys Hall of Famer and Super Bowl victor, Lee Roy Jordan, passes away at 84 years old.
Lee Roy Jordan, Legendary Middle Linebacker of the Dallas Cowboys, Passes Away at 84
Lee Roy Jordan, an inspirational leader and unanimous All-American who anchored the middle linebacker spot for 14 years with the Dallas Cowboys, passed away at the age of 84.
Born in Excel, Alabama, Jordan's football journey began at the University of Alabama, where he played under legendary head coach Bear Bryant. He was a unanimous All-American and an All-SEC member in his college career, recording an impressive 30 tackles in a win in the Orange Bowl over Oklahoma.
Jordan's professional football career took off when he was selected with the sixth overall pick in the first round by the Dallas Cowboys in 1963. He was also selected in both the NFL and AFL drafts that year. Jordan held the franchise record for team-credited tackles with 1,236 until 2002, a testament to his consistent and impactful play.
Jordan was a vital part of the Cowboys' first championship teams, serving as a pillar of their defence. He played in two NFL championship games and three Super Bowls, winning Super Bowl VI over the Dolphins.
Jordan's influence extended beyond the field, as he was an inspirational leader for the Cowboys. Jerry Jones, the owner of the Cowboys, paid tribute to Jordan, saying, "Lee Roy Jordan was the embodiment of the Cowboys' spirit."
Alabama football also paid tribute to Jordan, recognising his significant contributions to both college and professional football. Despite not being enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Jordan was added to the Cowboys' Ring of Honor in 1989, joining the likes of Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin.
The Dallas Cowboys confirmed Jordan's death with a statement, expressing their deep sorrow and gratitude for his contributions to the team. DeMarcus Ware, another Cowboys legend who has yet to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, was also inducted into the Dallas Cowboys' Ring of Honor, following in Jordan's footsteps.
Jordan's impact on football extends far beyond his statistics and accolades. His legacy as a leader, a team player, and a champion will live on in the hearts of Cowboys fans and football enthusiasts alike.
