Dallas Cowboys Quarterbacks By Year: A Comprehensive Overview

The Dallas Cowboys, one of the most iconic teams in the National Football League (NFL), have a storied history that includes a remarkable roster of quarterbacks over the years. This article delves into the performance and impact of each quarterback who has donned the Cowboys' jersey, highlighting their unique contributions to the team's legacy. Understanding the evolution of quarterbacks in the Cowboys franchise is essential for fans and football enthusiasts alike.

From legendary figures to recent talents, the quarterbacks of the Dallas Cowboys have played pivotal roles in shaping the team's identity and success. This detailed examination not only celebrates their achievements but also offers insights into how each player influenced the Cowboys' strategies and performance on the field. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this article will provide valuable information about the quarterbacks who have made their mark in Dallas.

Join us as we navigate through the years, marking key moments, statistics, and the overall significance of each quarterback in the Cowboys' history. With a focus on expertise, authority, and trustworthiness, this comprehensive guide aims to be a definitive resource on the Dallas Cowboys quarterbacks by year.

Table of Contents

• History of the Dallas Cowboys Quarterbacks
• Quarterbacks in the 1970s
• Quarterbacks in the 1980s
• Quarterbacks in the 1990s
• Quarterbacks in the 2000s
• Quarterbacks in the 2010s
• Quarterbacks in the 2020s
• Conclusion

History of the Dallas Cowboys Quarterbacks

The Dallas Cowboys were established in 1960, and since then, they have had numerous quarterbacks who have contributed to the franchise's success. The team's quarterback history is marked by a blend of celebrated legends and promising newcomers. With five Super Bowl championships and several playoff appearances, the Cowboys have relied heavily on the skills and leadership of their quarterbacks.

Throughout the years, the Cowboys have seen quarterbacks who not only excelled in regular-season games but also shined in crucial playoff matchups. Understanding the context of each era is essential to appreciate the evolution of the team's strategies and the quarterbacks' roles within them. From the early days of the franchise to the modern era, the Cowboys' quarterbacks have left an indelible mark on the NFL.

Quarterbacks in the 1970s

The 1970s marked the beginning of the Dallas Cowboys' dominance in the NFL, with notable quarterbacks leading the charge. The most prominent quarterback during this era was Roger Staubach.

Key Quarterbacks of the 1970s

• Roger Staubach (1969-1979): Staubach, known as "Captain America," led the Cowboys to four Super Bowl appearances, winning two. He was known for his ability to make plays under pressure and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.
• Craig Morton (1965-1977): Morton was the starting quarterback for the Cowboys in the early part of the decade before Staubach took over. He led the team to Super Bowl V.

Quarterbacks in the 1980s

The 1980s were characterized by a transition period for the Cowboys, with a mix of established veterans and new faces attempting to maintain the team's competitive edge.

Key Quarterbacks of the 1980s

• Danny White (1980-1988): White took over as the starter in 1980 and led the Cowboys to three consecutive NFC Championship games, although they fell short in two Super Bowl appearances.
• Gary Hogeboom (1980-1984): Hogeboom served as a backup and had moments of starting, contributing to the quarterback depth during this period.

Quarterbacks in the 1990s

The 1990s represented a golden era for the Cowboys, highlighted by the emergence of Troy Aikman, who became one of the franchise's most celebrated quarterbacks.

Key Quarterbacks of the 1990s

• Troy Aikman (1989-2000): Aikman was the face of the Cowboys in the 90s, leading the team to three Super Bowl victories. He was known for his precision passing and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006.
• Jason Garrett (1993-2000): Garrett served as Aikman's backup and later became the head coach, influencing the team's development in the 2000s.

Quarterbacks in the 2000s

The 2000s saw the Cowboys search for consistency at the quarterback position, with several players taking the helm.

Key Quarterbacks of the 2000s

• Quincy Carter (2001-2003): Carter was the first quarterback drafted by the Cowboys after the Aikman era. He had a promising start but struggled with consistency.
• Vinny Testaverde (2004-2006): The veteran quarterback provided stability and experience, leading the team to the playoffs in 2005.
• Tony Romo (2003-2016): Romo, who initially served as a backup, eventually became the starter and set numerous franchise records.

Quarterbacks in the 2010s

The 2010s were dominated by Tony Romo, whose electrifying play style kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Key Quarterbacks of the 2010s

• Tony Romo (2003-2016): Romo became a fan favorite, known for his ability to lead comebacks and his strong passing statistics. He is one of the most prolific passers in Cowboys history.
• Dak Prescott (2016-present): Prescott took over as the starter in 2016 and quickly made an impact, leading the Cowboys to multiple playoff appearances and earning accolades for his performance.

Quarterbacks in the 2020s

As we move into the 2020s, Dak Prescott continues to lead the Cowboys, bringing hope and excitement to the franchise.

Key Quarterbacks of the 2020s

• Dak Prescott (2016-present): Prescott's leadership and performance have made him a cornerstone of the Cowboys' future, as he looks to lead the team back to championship glory.

Conclusion

The history of Dallas Cowboys quarterbacks is rich with talent and achievements that have shaped the franchise. From Roger Staubach to Dak Prescott, each quarterback has contributed uniquely to the team's legacy. Understanding this history not only enhances appreciation for the players but also provides insights into the strategies and developments of the Cowboys over the decades.

As you reflect on the remarkable journeys of these quarterbacks, consider sharing your thoughts in the comments below or exploring other articles on our site to deepen your understanding of the Dallas Cowboys and their storied past.

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