At halftime, the Cowboys paid tribute to one of the most cherished figures in team history: Bill Bates, this week’s Cowboys Legend of the Game. Bates dedicated his entire 15-year NFL career to the Dallas Cowboys, embodying the spirit of perseverance, tenacity, and heart. As a three-time Super Bowl champion, he represents the gold standard of resilience and commitment…

At halftime, the Dallas Cowboys honored one of their most beloved figures, Bill Bates, as the Cowboys Legend of the Game. Bates, a fixture in Cowboys history, spent his entire 15-year NFL career with the team, solidifying his place as one of the franchise’s most cherished players. Known for his relentless work ethic, Bates was the embodiment of perseverance, tenacity, and heart—traits that have come to define the Cowboys’ legacy.

Bates’ career was marked by a series of remarkable achievements, none more impressive than his role in helping the team capture three Super Bowl championships. Though he was not always in the spotlight like some of his more high-profile teammates, Bates’ contributions were invaluable. His dedication and never-quit attitude on special teams and defense served as the backbone for many of the Cowboys’ successes during the 1990s.

Over the course of his career, Bates became the epitome of what it means to be a Cowboy. He was never the biggest or fastest player, but his intelligence, passion, and ability to make key plays in clutch moments made him indispensable. His leadership and unwavering commitment to the team earned him the respect of coaches, teammates, and fans alike.

Today, Bill Bates stands as a symbol of the Cowboy’s legacy—a representation of the gold standard of resilience, determination, and commitment to excellence. His journey from an undrafted free agent to one of the most enduring and influential players in franchise history is a testament to what hard work and belief in the team can achieve. This tribute is a fitting celebration of his profound impact on the Cowboys and the game of football.