Rayfield Wright

Witness the remarkable career of Rayfield Wright, the athletic offensive tackle who paved the way for the Dallas Cowboys' dynasty and earned his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
August 23, 1945, in Griffin, Georgia.

College Career

Rayfield Wright initially pursued basketball at Fort Valley State College, where he was a standout player. It wasn't until the summer after his freshman year that head coach Stan Lomax convinced him to join the football team. Demonstrating his incredible athleticism, Wright played multiple positions for the Wildcats, including tight end, defensive end, and even punter. His versatility and raw talent hinted at the dominant force he would later become, though he did not receive major national recognition in football during his time at Fort Valley State.  

Road to the Pro Game

Despite not playing high school football, Wright's athleticism caught the eye of NFL scouts. The Dallas Cowboys selected him in the seventh round of the 1967 NFL Draft, initially envisioning him as a tight end. However, after spending his first few seasons in various roles, the Cowboys eventually recognized his true potential lay at offensive tackle. By the 1970 season, Wright had solidified his role as the starting right tackle, a position he would command for the majority of his illustrious career.  

Football Legacy

Known as the "Big Cat" for his surprising agility and nimble feet despite his imposing size (6'6", 270 lbs), Rayfield Wright became the cornerstone of the Dallas Cowboys' offensive line throughout the 1970s. He was tasked with protecting the quarterback and opening running lanes, consistently excelling against the league's premier pass rushers. Wright's leadership and dominance in the trenches were instrumental in the Cowboys' sustained success, including their victories in Super Bowl VI and XII. He was the first offensive lineman in Cowboys history to be inducted into their Ring of Honor and earned a place on the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1970s.  

Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats:

✦ 2-time Super Bowl Champion (VI, XII)  

✦ 3-time First-team All-Pro (1971-1973)  

✦ 3-time Second-team All-Pro (1974-1976)  

✦ 6-time Pro Bowl selection (1971-1976)  

✦ NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

✦ Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor

✦ NFLPA NFC Offensive Lineman of the Year (1972)

✦ Played 13 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys (1967-1979)  
• Appeared in 166 career games  

✦ Recorded 2 receptions for 27 yards and 1 touchdown  

✦ Rushed 1 time for -10 yards