Defense wins championships, and the Dallas Cowboys have owned some of the greatest defensive backs in NFL history. Safeties, in particular, have been key to the team’s success. Be it hard-hitting enforcers or ball-hawking playmakers, these 15 players stand out as the Cowboys’ finest to ever play the position.
Darren Woodson (1992 – 2004)
Darren Woodson is the gold standard of Cowboys safeties. The three-time Super Bowl Awardee has five Pro Bowl selections and a franchise-leading 1,350 tackles. His exceptional skills include recording 23 interceptions and 11 sacks, proving his versatility as a run-stopper and pass-defender.
Mel Renfro (1964 – 1977)
A 10-time Pro Bowler and Hall of Famer, Mel Renfro played free safety and was part of the Cowboys’ defense that won two Super Bowls in the 1970s. He intercepted 52 passes and was also a lethal return man. Renfro’s 96-yard punt return touchdown in Super Bowl XII remains a record.
Cliff Harris (1970 – 1979)
Cliff “Captain Crash” Harris was a nightmare for opposing offenses in the ’70s. Known for his fearless hits, Harris was a six-time Pro Bowler and played in five Super Bowls, winning two. Due to his contributions to the squad, he became a member of the Professional Football Hall of Fame.
Charlie Waters (1970-1981)
With 41 career interceptions, Charlie Waters had a knack football. He helped guide the Cowboys to five Super Bowl appearances, winning two. Waters was a three-time Pro Bowler with the uncanny ability to read offenses and make timely plays. With nine interceptions throughout the playoffs, he now holds the NFL record.
Roy Williams (2002 – 2011)
Williams could turn a game on its head with his physicality and punishing hits, including the infamous “horse-collar tackle,” which led to a rule change and kept receivers cautious. The maneuver was banned in 2005 due to injury concerns. Williams earned five Pro Bowls, highlighting his playmaking ability and impact as a formidable safety.
James Washington (1990 – 1994)
When the stakes were highest, James Washington delivered. His clutch performances, including a key interception in Super Bowl XXVIII, earned him a reputation as a big-game player. Washington recorded 17 career interceptions and was a two-time Super Bowl champion, solidifying his role as a vital contributor to the Cowboys’ 1990s dynasty.
Cornell Green (1962 – 1974)
Green was a unique talent who played cornerback and safety for the Dallas Cowboys. His athleticism allowed him to cover receivers while also delivering hard hits. He became a first-team All-Pro twice and played in the Pro Bowl five times. His 34 interceptions rank fourth in franchise history.
George Teague (1996-1997, 1998-2001)
George Teague is remembered for defending the Cowboys’ star from Terrell Owens in 2000, but he was much more. A first-round pick in 1993, Teague spent five seasons with the Cowboys, recording 14 interceptions. His solid tackling skills and no-nonsense approach to the game earned him respect on and off the field.
Ken Hamlin (2007- 2009)
Hamlin brought stability to the Cowboys’ defense in 2007-2008. He earned Pro Bowl honors in 2007 after recording career highs in tackles (102) and pass deflections (11). Recognized for his hard-hitting style, Hamlin’s ability to quarterback the secondary made him an essential part of the defense.
Jayron Kearse (2021–2023)
Jayron Kearse has quickly made a name for himself in Dallas, emerging as a standout safety in recent seasons. With impressive tackling and coverage skills, he recorded 77 tackles and an interception in 2021. Kearse’s flexibility adds a dynamic element to the Cowboys’ secondary.
Donovan Wilson (2020 – Present)
An aggressive safety known for his blitzing ability, Donovan Wilson had a breakout season in 2022. He recorded 101 tackles, five sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception, showcasing his impact on the field. Wilson’s tackles and sacks were both brilliant, proving his versatility and value to the Cowboys’ defense.
Malik Hooker (2021–present)
After overcoming injuries early in his career, Malik Hooker has found success with the Cowboys. He became a playmaker in recent seasons and recorded 12 career interceptions, including a pick-six in 2022. With impressive ball skills and range, he tallied a career-high 62 tackles and 3 INTs for the Cowboys.
Bill Bates (1983-1997)
Bates was an underdog story who became a legend through grit and determination. Though not a full-time safety, he made his mark on special teams, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 1984. Bates leads the Cowboys in special teams tackles all-time and played three Super Bowl teams.
Danny McCray (2010-2013)
As a relentless tackler and leader, McCray made his mark as a special teams dynamo for the Cowboys from 2010-2013. He recorded 28 special teams tackles as a rookie, the third-most in team history since 1988. McCray also led the team in special teams tackles in 2010 and 2011, with 19 and 28 tackles, respectively.
Dennis Thurman (1978-1985)
Thurman was an incredible ball-hawking free safety who intercepted 36 passes in his career. His standout 1981 season featured a franchise-record 9 interceptions that won him a Pro Bowl selection. A key contributor to the Cowboys’ defense, he helped secure NFC East titles in 1981 and 1985.
15 Greatest Safeties in Dallas Cowboys History