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Former NFL Dallas Cowboys star linebacker Jordan passes away at the age of 84

Legendary linebacker Lee Roy Jordan, renowned for his 14-year tenure with the "Doomsday Defense" of the Dallas Cowboys, passed away at 84, as announced by the NFL club on Saturday.

Legendary NFL Cowboys linebacker, Jordan, passes away at 84 years old.
Legendary NFL Cowboys linebacker, Jordan, passes away at 84 years old.

Former NFL Dallas Cowboys star linebacker Jordan passes away at the age of 84

In a statement released by the Dallas Cowboys, it was announced that one of the franchise's most iconic players, Lee Roy Jordan, has passed away.

Jordan, who spent his entire NFL career with the Cowboys from 1963 to 1976, was an inspirational leader of the team's first championship teams. Drafted sixth overall in 1963, he became the first rookie linebacker in Dallas history to open the season as a starter.

Throughout his 14-year tenure with the team, Jordan was at the core of the "Doomsday Defense" and anchored the middle linebacker spot. His fearless instincts, leadership, and relentless work ethic made him the embodiment of the Cowboys' spirit.

Jordan's impact on the game was significant. In the 1970 season, he helped the Cowboys reach the Super Bowl, although they ultimately lost to the Baltimore Colts. However, he made history by helping the team win their first Super Bowl crown in the 1971 season, a victory that was made possible with his help against Miami in the Super Bowl title game.

In 1973, Jordan intercepted three passes in the first quarter by Cincinnati's Ken Anderson, returning one for a touchdown. Two years later, he made a team-record 21 tackles against Philadelphia. His career statistics include 743 solo tackles in 186 contests and 32 interceptions, returning three for touchdowns.

Jordan's legacy lives on as a model of dedication, integrity, and toughness. His 154 consecutive starts for the Cowboys in one stretch is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the team. The Dallas Cowboys shared a statement, saying, "Lee Roy Jordan was the embodiment of the Cowboys' spirit, and his impact on the game and those who knew him will live on forever."

The source of this information is © 2025 AFP (Agence France-Presse). Our thoughts are with Lee Roy Jordan's family and friends during this difficult time.

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