What NFL Players Went to SMU: A Look at the Dallas Cowboys’ Legacy
Southern Methodist University (SMU) has a rich history of producing exceptional athletes, and this is especially true when it comes to football. Over the years, many SMU Mustangs have gone on to achieve success in the National Football League (NFL), particularly with the Dallas Cowboys. This article takes a closer look at some of the notable NFL players who attended SMU and their impact on the sport.
1. Troy Aikman
Arguably the most famous SMU alumnus to play in the NFL, Troy Aikman is a name that will forever be synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys. As the quarterback for the Cowboys from 1989 to 2000, Aikman won three Super Bowl rings and was named the Super Bowl MVP in 1995. Aikman’s leadership and skill on the field helped establish the Cowboys as a dominant force in the NFL during the 1990s.
2. Craig James
Another standout quarterback for the SMU Mustangs, Craig James spent a brief but memorable tenure with the Cowboys from 1991 to 1994. James was known for his strong arm and ability to lead the team to victory. Although his time with the Cowboys was short-lived, James’ impact on the team was significant, and he remains a beloved figure among SMU and Dallas fans.
3. Charles Haley
While Charles Haley may be more famous for his tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, his time at SMU laid the foundation for his Hall of Fame career. As a defensive end for the Mustangs, Haley was a dominant force on the field and was selected in the second round of the 1985 NFL Draft by the Cowboys. Although his time with Dallas was not as long as his tenure with the 49ers, Haley’s leadership and playmaking ability helped the Cowboys reach the Super Bowl multiple times.
4. Tony Romo
Tony Romo is another SMU alumnus who made a significant impact on the Dallas Cowboys. As the team’s starting quarterback from 2006 to 2016, Romo led the Cowboys to the playoffs in several seasons and was known for his strong arm and ability to make big plays. Although Romo’s time with the Cowboys ended on a sour note, his contributions to the team’s success during the early 2010s are undeniable.
5. Kevin Byard
The most recent SMU alumnus to play in the NFL, Kevin Byard, is a talented safety who has made a name for himself with the Tennessee Titans. Byard was drafted in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft and has since become one of the league’s top safeties. His leadership and playmaking ability have helped the Titans become a competitive team in the AFC South.
In conclusion, Southern Methodist University has a proud history of producing NFL talent, particularly when it comes to the Dallas Cowboys. From Troy Aikman to Kevin Byard, these SMU Mustangs have left an indelible mark on the sport and will continue to be remembered as some of the best to ever play the game.
