Dallas Cowboys legend Don Perkins, member of Ring of Honor, dies at 84
Former Dallas Cowboys running back Don Perkins, a member of the team’s hallowed Ring of Honor, has died.
He was 84.
Perkins is the first great running back in franchise history, rushing for 6,217 in eight seasons with the Cowboys from 1961 to 1968.
He still ranks fourth in franchise history in rushing yards and fourth in rushing touchdowns with 42.
He was a six time Pro Bowler and three time All-Pro selection.
Perkins was inducted into the Cowboys’ Ring of Honor in 1976.
After starring at New Mexico, Perkins was drafted by the Baltimore Colts in 1960, but he had signed a contract with the Cowboys before the draft. The NFL allowed Perkins to suit up for Cowboy nation in exchange of a ninth-round pick to the Colts.
Perkins made an immediate impact in Dallas, rushing for 815 yards and four touchdowns en route to Rookie of the Year and Pro Bowl honors in 1961.
Perkins’ death is the latest in a string of forever departures that have hit the Cowboys in recent months.
The franchise has also lost Hall of Famer Dan Reeves, offensive lineman Ralph Neely, former running backs coach Gary Brown, long-time scouting director Larry Lacewell, owner Jerry Jones’ forever assistant, Marilyn Love. He’s the second Ring of Honor member to die recently. Legendary tackle Rayfield Wright died on April 7.
And former running back Marion Barber passed away last week.
This report contains information from The Associated Press.
This story was originally published June 10, 2022 at 9:00 AM.
