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Happy 82nd Birthday To Roger Staubach

I just had PTI on in the background and heard Tony Kornheiser wish Roger Staubach a happy 82nd birthday today. He went on to talk about how young people today have no idea what a freaking stud this guy was. And he was right. 

My dad has been raving to me about not just what an elite football player Staubach was in his day, but also what an exemplary man of his time he was. He was a kid when he played but still looks up to him to this day. And for good reason. After hearing him gush about how "they don't make them like Roger Staubach anymore" for the one-millionth time, I decided to look into him and his story myself.

And by look into him, I mean I pulled up on NFL Films "A Football Life" on-demand and watched it. 

Holy shit was I blown away.

Staubach was known as "Captain America" and "Roger the Dodger" for his scrambling abilities, stands as a towering figure in the annals of American football history.

(Watch the NFL Films footage, and you'll be shocked at the wheels this guy had for somebody who played during his time. He also took some punishing hits while trying to extend plays or avoid being sacked.)

His collegiate career at the United States Naval Academy set the stage for his future success, where he clinched the Heisman Trophy in 1963, as a junior, as a testament to his exceptional play and leadership on the field.

Bettmann. Getty Images.

After graduating with flying colors in 1964, and his athletic achievements, he proudly accepted his responsibility by enrolling in the Navy for four years. Can you imagine this happening today? Not just a service academy player winning a Heisman, but them then going into the military for 4 years? 

Bettmann. Getty Images.

After fulfilling his military service, Staubach joined the Dallas Cowboys in 1969, marking the beginning of an illustrious NFL career that would redefine the quarterback position. His tenure with the Cowboys was marked by extraordinary accomplishments, including leading the team to five Super Bowl appearances and securing victories in Super Bowl VI and XII. Staubach's ability to perform under pressure earned him the Super Bowl VI MVP, further cementing his legacy in the sport.

He played 11 seasons, retiring in 1979. He threw for 22,700 yards during that time, with 153 TDs. His completion percentage was 57.0%. He ran for more than 2,200 yards, 20 rushing tds, and retired with an 83.4 career passer rating, which was one of the highest at the time of his retirement. He was selected to the Pro Bowl six times (1971, 1975–1979) and was named a First-team All-Pro in 1971 and received Second-team All-Pro honors in 1977.

You really have to watch the Football Life doc on him to appreciate it, mostly from the mouths of his teammates and opponents, but beyond his remarkable athleticism and game intelligence, Staubach's leadership and character were unparalleled. He was revered not only for his clutch performances in critical moments but also for his sportsmanship and dedication to the game. His last-minute heroics and miraculous comebacks left fans and players alike in awe, earning him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.

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Off the field, Staubach's achievements are equally commendable. His successful transition into the business world post-retirement, where he founded a highly successful real estate company, showcases his acumen and versatility. His commitment to community service and philanthropy reflects the depth of his character, embodying the values of integrity, perseverance, and teamwork that he displayed on the field. To this day, the man is deeply dedicated to charity work and is constantly donating his time to good causes. 

So much so that he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Donald Trump in 2018. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is one of the highest civilian awards in the United States, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the security or national interests of the country, world peace, cultural, or other significant public or private endeavors. Staubach's receipt of this prestigious award highlights not only his exceptional career in football but also his exemplary service to the nation, including his commitment to philanthropy and community service.

Alex Wong. Getty Images.

So happy 82nd birthday to Roger Staubach. A true American. 

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