The Dallas Cowboys have a long and storied history in the NFL, filled with iconic players who have shaped the franchise’s legacy. Through smart drafting, the Cowboys have acquired some of the greatest talents in the sport.
This article takes a look at the top five draft picks in Cowboys history, players who not only stood out individually but also helped solidify the team’s standing as “America’s Team.”
The Top Colleges for Dallas Recruits
The Cowboys have often tapped into powerhouse college football programs to find their top players. Schools such as the University of Oklahoma, Florida, Miami, and USC have all contributed to the Cowboys’ success in past years.
College football isn’t just a breeding ground for NFL talent; it’s also a major part of American sports culture, just like the NCAA is for the NBA.
The intensity of competition at the college level can often rival that of the NFL as the nation’s top young players all vie for NFL contracts. Fueling the ever-growing popularity of college football, the growth of online college football sportsbooks has been immense in recent years.
According to sports betting expert Solomon Ojeagbase, thanks to these platforms, fans now have more ways to engage with the game by placing bets on everything from individual games to player stats, and season outcomes.
Making things more exciting, the best sportsbooks usually also offer benefits like generous bonuses and a wide range of betting markets.
The Cowboys are sitting at odds of +1400 to win the Super Bowl, making them one of the contenders to watch this year.
As we wait to see how their season unfolds, here’s a look back at the five greatest draft picks in Cowboy history.
1. Roger Staubach (1964)
Roger Staubach is widely regarded as one of the best draft picks in Dallas Cowboys history. Despite being selected in the 10th round of the 1964 NFL Draft, his entry into the league was met with little attention.
Staubach’s NFL debut was delayed by five years due to his service commitment with the U.S. Navy, where he played for the Naval Academy before joining the Cowboys.
However, when he finally joined the Cowboys, he quickly proved his worth once given a chance for more consistent playing time.
His ability to stay calm under pressure earned him the nickname “Captain Comeback.”
Staubach guided the Cowboys to two Super Bowl titles and earned the MVP award in Super Bowl VI. He was selected to the Pro Bowl six times and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.
His leadership and knack for delivering in critical moments have cemented his status as a football icon, both in Dallas and throughout the NFL.
2. Emmitt Smith (1990)
Emmitt Smith, drafted 17th overall in 1990, is the NFL’s all-time leading rusher.
Coming out of the University of Florida, Smith was known for his toughness and vision. He quickly became the focal point of the Cowboys’ offense, dominating the league with his ability to churn out yards in any situation.
Smith’s impact was immediate, and he went on to win three Super Bowls with the Cowboys in the 1990s.
He was named Super Bowl XXVIII MVP and also earned NFL MVP honors in 1993.
His combination of durability and consistency set him apart from other running backs. Smith’s record of 18,355 rushing yards remains a testament to his longevity and elite talent.
3. Troy Aikman (1989)
Troy Aikman, drafted first overall in 1989 out of UCLA, was the perfect quarterback to lead the Cowboys to success in the 1990s. His poise and accuracy were vital in executing head coach Jimmy Johnson’s game plans, which often relied on a balanced offense.
Aikman won three Super Bowls with the Cowboys and was named Super Bowl XXVII MVP.
His chemistry with other Cowboys greats like Michael Irvin and Emmitt Smith made Dallas a dominant force during the 1990s.
Troy Aikman was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006 and remains a key figure in the team’s championship history.
4. Michael Irvin (1988)
Michael Irvin, selected 11th overall in the 1988 draft from the University of Miami, was a key piece in the Cowboys’ offensive juggernaut during their dynasty in the 1990s.
Known as “The Playmaker,” Irvin was a physical wide receiver who thrived in big moments.
He finished his career with 11,904 receiving yards and 65 touchdowns, earning five Pro Bowl selections and three Super Bowl rings.
Irvin’s presence on the field was about more than just statistics; his leadership helped foster a winning culture in Dallas and he remains unafraid to have his say these days.
5. Larry Allen (1994)
Larry Allen, drafted in the second round of the 1994 draft out of Sonoma State, is widely considered one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history.
Known for his incredible strength and versatility, Allen could play multiple positions along the offensive line, excelling at both guard and tackle.
Allen was a 10-time Pro Bowl selection and a six-time First-Team All-Pro. He helped protect the Cowboys’ quarterbacks and open lanes for running backs like Emmitt Smith.
His durability and dominance made him a Hall of Famer, and he is remembered for being one of the toughest and most feared linemen of his era.