Cowboys fans have long celebrated the defensive legends who defined an era of dominance in the NFL. Among these elite athletes were linebackers who anchored the heart of the defense by playing pivotal roles in the team’s success. These 15 players, representing the very best ever to don the star, shaped the reputation of the Dallas Cowboys.
D.D. Lewis (1968–1981)
Reliability and versatility were the hallmarks of D.D. Lewis’s 13-season career with the Cowboys. Recognized for his consistent play, he was critical in both pass coverage and run defense. With two Super Bowl rings (VI and XII) to his name, Lewis’s impact on and off the field made him a true Cowboy legend.
Robert Jones (1992–1996)
As the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1992, Robert Jones swiftly became a key force on the Cowboys’ defense. His aggressive play and sharp instincts helped anchor the Cowboys’ defense during their dominant run in the 1990s. Jones played a pivotal role in securing three Super Bowl victories, forever cementing his legacy in Cowboys lore.
Bradie James (2003–2011)
Bradie James’s specialty was being in the right place at the right time. His presence in the middle was felt in every play, as he led the Cowboys in tackles for six straight seasons from 2005 to 2010. James’s durability and dependable performance made him one of the defenses during his nine seasons with Dallas.
Eugene Lockhart (1984–1990)
Intensity and heart were the trademarks of Eugene “Mean Gene” Lockhart during his time with the Cowboys in the late ’80s. Lockhart’s aggressive style led him to top the NFL with 222 tackles in 1989—a franchise record. Fierce play and passionate dedication earned him a special place in the hearts of Cowboys fans.
Dat Nguyen (1999–2005)
Defying expectations, Dat Nguyen became one of the most reliable tacklers in Cowboys history. Despite being considered undersized, his football IQ and work ethic made him a standout. Leading the team in tackles multiple times, including a career-high 172 in 2001, Nguyen’s journey from underdog to star is one of the Cowboys’ most inspiring stories.
Sean Lee (2010–2020)
On the field, Sean Lee was more than just a linebacker; he was the brain of the Cowboys’ defense. Known as “The General” for his ability to read offenses, Lee’s career was marked by elite playmaking and leadership. Though injuries plagued his time in the League, his two Pro Bowl selections and countless game-saving plays proved his undeniable impact on the team.
Dexter Coakley (1997–2004)
Speed was Dexter Coakley’s secret weapon throughout his career with the Cowboys. As a three-time Pro Bowler, his skill in covering ground quickly made him a nightmare for offenses. Whether in coverage or support, Coakley’s quickness allowed him to make plays that left fans and opponents in awe. His energy and athleticism were pivotal to the Cowboys’ defense.
Ken Norton Jr. (1988–1993)
The fire and relentless energy Ken Norton Jr. brought to the field defined his time with the Cowboys. His hard-hitting style and leadership were critical to the Cowboys’ dominance in the early ’90s, contributing to back-to-back Super Bowl victories. Norton became the first player to win three consecutive Super Bowls, securing two with Dallas and a third with the 49ers.
Lee Roy Jordan (1963–1976)
For 14 seasons, Lee Roy Jordan was a consistent and strong leader for the Cowboys. Well-known for his ability to read plays and deliver crushing hits, Jordan led the team in tackles for seven seasons. His 32 career interceptions highlight his versatility. Inducted into the Cowboys Ring of Honor, Jordan’s standing remains unparalleled.
Chuck Howley (1961–1973)
He specialized in game-changing plays, earning him the unique distinction of being the only defensive player to win Super Bowl MVP on a losing team. Over his 12 seasons with the Cowboys, he collected six Pro Bowl selections and five All-Pro honors. Howley’s remarkable athletic journey underscores his greatness and ensures his place in NFL history.
DeMarcus Ware (2005–2013)
As a relentless force on the edge, DeMarcus Ware terrorized quarterbacks throughout his career with the Cowboys. Leading the NFL in sacks twice, his unmatched speed and power made him one of the league’s most feared pass rushers. His contributions were instrumental in keeping the defense formidable during his time in Dallas.
Charles Haley (1992–1996)
Few players could change the momentum of a game like Charles Haley. Notable for his ferocious pass rush, Haley played a vital role in helping the Cowboys secure three Super Bowl titles in the 1990s. Opponents consistently felt the impact of his presence on the field, fueled by the winning mentality he developed during his time with the 49ers.
Harvey Martin (1973–1983)
Due to his sheer strength and tenacity, offensive lines faced relentless pressure from Harvey Martin, the 1977 Super Bowl co-MVP. Racking up sacks at critical moments, he was pivotal in securing victories when they mattered most. Though his life was cut short in 2001, Martin’s legacy as a disruptive force remains a hallmark of the team’s defense during his era.
Randy White (1975–1988)
Nicknamed “The Manster” for his hybrid of man and monster, Randy White was a nightmare for opposing offenses. Playing both defensive tackle and end, his relentless pursuit and ability to collapse the pocket won him a spot in the Hall of Fame. His unmatched intensity and drive made him a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense.
Bob Lilly (1961–1974)
A master at breaking through the offensive line, Bob Lilly’s quickness and technique made him nearly impossible to block. Regarded as “Mr. Cowboy,” he set the standard for defensive excellence in Dallas. Earning 11 Pro Bowl selections, Lilly’s influence on the field and in the locker room remains legendary to this day.
Top 15 Linebackers Who Shaped Dallas Cowboys’ Legacy