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31. John Niland

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31. John Niland

The Dallas Cowboys have been known throughout their history as having outstanding Offensive Linemen, and John Niland was the first one they acquired with a first round pick (5th Overall in 1966).  

Niland started four games as a rookie, and in 1967, he was affixed as the Cowboys starting Left Guard.  With Niland and teammate, Bob Lilly, the Dallas O-Line would emerge as one of the best in football.  From 1968 to 1973, he was named to the Pro Bowl and was a First Team All-Pro in both 1971 and 1972.  Niland was also instrumental in Dallas’ Super Bowl VI win. 

He left Dallas in 1975 when he was traded to Philadelphia, where he played one year before retiring.

The Bullet Points

  • Position: Offensive Guard
  • Acquired: Selected in the 1st Round, 5th Overall in the NFL Draft 11/27/65.
  • Departed: Traded to the Philadelphia Eagles for a 1977 3rd Round Pick (which would be Tony Hill) 9/14/75.
  • Games Played: 124
  • Notable Statistics:

    113 Games Started
    5 Fumble Recoveries
    1 Fumble Recovery Yard
    1 Fumble Recovery Touchdown
    86 Approximate Value

    15 Playoff Games

  • Major Accolades and Awards:

    Super Bowl Champion (VI)
    First Team All-Pro (1971 & 1972)
    Pro Bowl (1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972 & 1973)

Last modified on Tuesday, 16 August 2022 03:08

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