### Remembering Tom Rafferty: A Dallas Cowboys Legend Passes Away at 70 - Tom Rafferty, a former center and guard for the Dallas Cowboys, has died at the age of 70 due to complications from a stroke. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of the Cowboys, where he played for 14 seasons and was a key contributor to the team's success during the late 1970s and 1980s. Drafted in 1976, Rafferty became a cornerstone of the offensive line, playing in two Super Bowls and winning Super Bowl XII against the Denver Broncos. His legacy is remembered not only for his on-field achievements but also for his character and work ethic, which left a lasting impact on teammates and fans alike [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/former_cowboy_and_super_bowl_champion_tom_rafferty_dies_at_70/s1_17100_42297553]. ### Overview of Tom Rafferty's Career and Legacy 1. **Career Highlights** - Played 14 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys from 1976 to 1989. - Key player in Super Bowl XII victory and participated in Super Bowl XIII. - Known for versatility, playing both guard and center positions. 2. **Impact on the Team** - Bridged the careers of Hall of Fame quarterbacks Roger Staubach and Troy Aikman. - Played in 221 combined regular season and playoff games, a record for offensive linemen in Cowboys history. - His blocking was instrumental in significant plays, including Tony Dorsett's record 99-yard touchdown run [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/tom_rafferty_cowboys_ol_from_1976_89_dies_at_70/s1_17049_42292825]. 3. **Personal Life and Character** - Known for his grit and leadership on the field. - Overcame personal health challenges, including a neurological disorder that left him with no feeling below the waist, demonstrating resilience and determination [https://tylerpaper.com/sports/tom-rafferty-a-cowboy-stalwart-known-for-doing-the-right-thing-dies-at-70/article_60638b0b-d1a3-4d23-a3a2-b8779e581cfe.html]. - Survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, leaving a legacy of strength and perseverance [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/cowboys_super_bowl_winner_tom_rafferty_dies_at_70/s1_127_42295538]. ### Supporting Evidence of Tom Rafferty's Contributions - **Career Statistics** - **Seasons Played**: 14 (1976-1989) - **Games Played**: 221 (regular season and playoffs) - **Super Bowl Appearances**: 2 (Super Bowl XII and XIII) - **Notable Plays**: Blocked for Tony Dorsett's 99-yard touchdown run [https://www.espn.co.uk/nfl/story/_/id/45464143/tom-rafferty-former-cowboys-ol-1976-89-dies-70]. - **Team Recognition** - The Dallas Cowboys released a statement honoring Rafferty, highlighting his role as a trusted teammate and champion [https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/sports/dallas-cowboys-tom-rafferty-dies/3858180/?os=shmmfp]. ### Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence and Resilience - **Tom Rafferty's Impact**: His contributions to the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL are significant, marked by his dedication and performance on the field. - **Enduring Memory**: Rafferty's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans, reminding them of the importance of teamwork, resilience, and the spirit of the game. - **Final Thoughts**: The Cowboys community mourns the loss of a true legend, whose life and career exemplified the values of hard work and perseverance [https://www.macnifico.pt/news-en/tom-rafferty-dallas-cowboys-ironman-and-super-bowl-hero-dies-at-70-after-stroke/95396].