Tom Rafferty, a revered figure in the Dallas Cowboys’ history, passed away at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy that transcends football. Known for his dedication and integrity both on and off the field, Rafferty’s life paints a picture of resilience and commitment.
### A Fearless Competitor
Born in New York and drafted in the fourth round out of Penn State in 1976, Rafferty rapidly made a name for himself in the NFL. He took over Blaine Nye’s position at right guard in his second season and started for two Super Bowl victories, showcasing his unwavering commitment to excellence. Over the course of his career, he played 167 consecutive games, a record for the Cowboys at the time, a testament to his durability and tenacity.
### Bridging Generations
Rafferty’s career spanned a pivotal era in Cowboys’ football, bridging the transition between legends like Roger Staubach and Troy Aikman. This evolution demonstrates his adaptability and skill as a player. His physicality as an undersized offensive lineman—at 6’3″ and 256 pounds—was characteristic of the tough, quick players from Tom Landry’s offensive lines in the ’70s and ’80s. Brad Sham, the longtime radio voice of the Cowboys, remarked on Rafferty’s unique ability to pull and block effectively, a skill that allowed him to excel in a position where speed and agility often mattered as much as size.
### Memorable Moments
Throughout his career, Rafferty was involved in some unforgettable moments. One of the most notable instances occurred during a 1983 game when he helped spring running back Tony Dorsett on a record-breaking 99-yard touchdown run against Minnesota while the team was playing with only ten men on the field. Stories like this illustrate not just Rafferty’s skill but also his pivotal role within the team dynamic.
An infamous incident also showcased his personality and principles as a player. In a crucial game against the Washington Redskins, quarterback Danny White attempted an audible under pressure, but Rafferty refused to snap the ball when he thought it was the wrong call. This moment crystallized his unwavering commitment to “doing the right thing,” even when it might not align with his quarterback’s impulsiveness. White recalls that Rafferty’s determination to follow the game plan was both admirable and humorous in hindsight.
### A Battle Beyond Football
Rafferty’s strength wasn’t just confined to the football field; it extended to his personal life as well. In 2008, he was diagnosed with transverse myelitis, a rare neurological disorder, which left him with no sensation below the waist. Rather than succumb to his limitations, Rafferty fought back against the odds. His determination enabled him to walk again, refusing to accept a wheelchair. His daughter Rachel Powers recalled how her father’s tenacity made him a role model not only in sports but also in life.
### Family Legacy
Tom Rafferty was more than just an athlete; he was a devoted family man. He was married to his wife, Donna, for nearly 49 years and was a proud father and grandfather. After retiring from the NFL, he ventured into sports equipment sales and continued to stay engaged, particularly during the last few years as he and Donna moved closer to their grandchildren in Colorado.
His children describe their father as a compassionate and intelligent man, cherished for his propensity to tease those close to him while demonstrating a steadfast nature that made him a beloved figure in their community.
### Remembering Rafferty
As we reflect on Tom Rafferty’s life, it’s evident that his story serves as an inspiration. He exemplified the values of hard work, integrity, and resilience. His impact on the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL is etched in the memories of fans and players alike.
Rafferty’s passing has left a void in the hearts of many, but his legacy remains. A memorial service is pending, offering a chance for those whose lives he touched to celebrate his impactful life. Until then, his family, friends, and former teammates remember him not just as a football player but as an outstanding individual who embodied the spirit of perseverance.
### Closing Thoughts
The narrative of Tom Rafferty is a powerful reminder of how sports can intersect with life lessons. In a world often focused on metrics and statistics, his story reminds us of the human connections behind the game. As the Cowboys family mourns the loss of one of its stalwarts, the lessons of resilience, courage, and doing the right thing endure, inspired by Rafferty’s extraordinary journey.
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