Don Perkins
Before joining the Dallas Cowboys in the franchise's second season, Don Perkins made a name for himself as an All-American football player at the University of New Mexico. Perkins was a three-time All-Skyline Conference running back for the Lobos. He was also the nation's leading kick returner as a senior in 1959. Perkins quickly made an impact with the Cowboys earning NFL Rookie of the Year honors in 1961. The 5'10, 200lb. back became the first Cowboys player to rush for over 6,000 career yards (1961-68). His career total of 6,217 rushing yards ranks third in franchise history behind only Tony Dorsett and Emmitt Smith. Perkins finished on the NFL's top ten rushing list each season that he played. He played in six Pro Bowls and earned All-Pro honors in 1962. Don Perkins was enshrined in the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor in 1976. Perkins was a member of the Texas Sports Hall of Fame's Class of 2006.
