Cowboys Celebrate Franchise Legend Bill Bates During Halftime Ceremony
ARLINGTON, TX — June 15, 2025
During halftime of Sunday’s electrifying matchup at AT&T Stadium, the Dallas Cowboys took a moment to honor one of the most cherished figures in franchise history: Bill Bates, who was named the Cowboys Legend of the Game. The crowd erupted into a thunderous ovation as the three-time Super Bowl champion and fan-favorite was recognized at midfield, celebrating a career that left an indelible mark on the organization.
Bates, who played his entire 15-year NFL career with the Cowboys from 1983 to 1997, personified grit, toughness, and an unrelenting work ethic. An undrafted free agent out of the University of Tennessee, Bates earned his place on the team not through fanfare, but through sheer determination—quickly becoming a staple on special teams and earning the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
The halftime ceremony featured a highlight reel of Bates’s most iconic moments, from bone-jarring special teams tackles to emotional sideline celebrations during the Cowboys’ 1990s dynasty years. The stadium roared as Bates was introduced, his signature No. 40 jersey waving on flags and signs throughout the stands.
“If we had 11 players on the field who played as hard as Bill Bates does and did their homework like he does, we’d be almost impossible to beat,” legendary head coach Tom Landry once said of Bates—a quote that was displayed on the stadium jumbotron, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. That statement encapsulates what Bates represented during his time in Dallas: relentless effort, unmatched preparation, and an undying passion for the game.
Throughout his career, Bates earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors, and was instrumental in helping the Cowboys secure three Super Bowl titles (XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX). But more than the championships or accolades, what endeared Bates to fans was his fearless style of play and his loyalty to the star on his helmet. Week after week, snap after snap, he left everything on the field—whether as a safety, special teams captain, or locker room leader.
“Bill Bates didn’t just play for the Cowboys—he was a Cowboy,” said team owner Jerry Jones during the ceremony. “He gave this franchise everything he had. He earned every ounce of respect that comes with being called a legend.”
Bates, standing alongside his family, offered a heartfelt thank you to the fans, coaches, and teammates who supported him throughout his career. Fighting back tears, he said, “I was just a kid who wanted a chance. And this organization gave me that. I’ll always be grateful to wear the star and to be a part of this Cowboys family.”
As the stadium lights dimmed and fans rose to their feet in a standing ovation, it was clear that the spirit of Bill Bates lives on—not just in highlight reels, but in the heart of every Cowboys fan who watched him play.
Thank you, Bill Bates, for 15 unforgettable seasons. You are, and always will be, a true Cowboy. ⭐
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