From his decorated college career to his legendary status with the Dallas Cowboys, Staubach embodied the qualities of a true champion, earning the moniker "Captain America" and solidifying his place in NFL history.

College Career

Roger Staubach's college career at the Naval Academy was marked by exceptional success despite a two-year service commitment.

As quarterback, he led the Midshipmen to national prominence, winning the Heisman Trophy in 1963. His performance against Army that year, where he orchestrated a stunning comeback, cemented his reputation as a clutch performer. Beyond the accolades, Staubach's time at Navy instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and teamwork, qualities that would serve him well in his professional career. His commitment to serving his country before pursuing his professional football dreams further enhanced his reputation as a man of character and integrity.

Staubach was befitting of the name “Roger the Dodger” as his elusive skill set kept defenses off guard, never knowing if he would run or throw a pass. The NFF states that During three varsity seasons, Staubach completed 292 of 463 pass attempts, for an incredible 63% completion rate. And of those 463 throws, only 19 were intercepted. In 1963 Roger was honored by receiving both the Heisman Trophy and Maxwell Award and being selected as an All-American. The College Football Hall of Fame voters came knocking on Roger Staubach’s door to induct him into their museum in 1981.

Road to the Pro Game

Staubach's path to the NFL was unique. Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 10th round of the 1964 NFL Draft, he was still serving his commitment to the Navy.

He didn't join the Cowboys until 1969, four years after being drafted, and many questioned whether he could still perform at a high level after such a long layoff. However, Staubach quickly silenced his critics. He possessed a remarkable ability to process information quickly and make smart decisions under pressure, a skill honed during his time in the Navy. His athleticism, combined with his leadership and unwavering poise, made him the perfect fit for Tom Landry's sophisticated offensive system. He quickly became the leader of the Cowboys, transforming them into "America's Team" and leading them to consistent playoff appearances.

Staubach served his four-year commitment to the Navy and, at 27, joined the Dallas Cowboys as a rookie. He spent ten seasons under center with Dallas and, per ProfootballHOF.com, left with an impressive 83.4 passing rating, the best mark by an NFL player.

Football Legacy

His career stats were officially at 1,685 completions in 2,958 passing attempts, which were good for 22,700 yards and 153 touchdowns. He was a two-time Super Bowl winner and MVP of Super Bowl VI. Roger Staubach in 1985 was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Roger Staubach's legacy is one of unparalleled success and enduring respect. He led the Dallas Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories (VI and XII) and four Super Bowl appearances. His ability to orchestrate game-winning drives, often in dramatic fashion, earned him the nickname "Captain Comeback."

Beyond the championships, Staubach's impact on the game extended beyond the scoreboard. He epitomized class and sportsmanship, earning the respect of his teammates and opponents alike. His leadership and poise under pressure set a new standard for quarterbacks in the NFL. Staubach's career demonstrated that success could be achieved through dedication, hard work, and unwavering belief in oneself. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985, solidifying his place among the game's greatest quarterbacks. Roger Staubach's legacy is not just about wins and losses; it's about the character he displayed, the leadership he provided, and the inspiration he gave to generations of football fans. He remains a symbol of excellence, both on and off the field.  

Career highlights and awards

✦ 2× Super Bowl champion (VI, XII)

✦ Super Bowl MVP (VI)

✦ NFL Man of the Year (1978)

✦ Second-team All-Pro (1971)

✦ 6× Pro Bowl (1971, 1975–1979)

✦ NFL passing touchdowns leader (1973)

✦ 4× NFL passer rating leader (1971, 1973, 1978, 1979)

✦ NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

✦ NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

✦ Bert Bell Award (1971)

✦ George Halas Award (1980)

✦ Lamar Hunt Award (2012)

✦ Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor

✦ Heisman Trophy (1963)

✦ Maxwell Award (1963)

✦ Chic Harley Award (1963)

✦ UPI Player of the Year (1963)

✦ SN Player of the Year (1963)

✦ Walter Camp Memorial Trophy (1963)

✦ Unanimous All-American (1963)

✦ 2× First-team All-East (1963, 1964)

✦ Second-team All-East (1962)

✦ Navy Midshipmen No. 12 retired

✦ Presidential Medal of Freedom (2018)

Career NFL statistics

✦ Passing attempts: 2,958

✦ Passing completions: 1,685

✦ Completion percentage: 57.0%

✦ TD–INT: 153–109

✦ Passing yards: 22,700

✦ Passer rating: 83.4

✦ Rushing yards: 2,264

✦ Rushing touchdowns: 20

Roger Staubach. (2025, January 6). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Staubach