Rayfield Wright

The Towering Force Who Defined the Modern Offensive Tackle

Few offensive linemen in NFL history were as dominant, athletic, and influential as Rayfield Wright. A two-time Super Bowl champion, six-time Pro Bowler, and Hall of Fame offensive tackle, Wright was the cornerstone of the Dallas Cowboys' offensive line for over a decade, protecting legendary quarterbacks Roger Staubach and Craig Morton while paving the way for one of the most powerful rushing attacks of the 1970s.

At 6’6” and 270 pounds, Wright was a physical marvel, blending size, power, and agility in a way that revolutionized the offensive tackle position. Originally drafted as a tight end, he made a seamless transition to offensive tackle, where his rare combination of quick feet, incredible strength, and intelligence made him a dominant force in pass protection and run blocking.

Wright wasn’t just one of the greatest Cowboys ever—he was a key piece in their rise to an NFL dynasty, anchoring the offensive line during their five Super Bowl appearances and two championships. His ability to neutralize elite pass rushers, protect his quarterbacks, and open massive running lanes for Dallas’ ground game made him the gold standard for offensive tackles.

This collection honors Rayfield Wright, the unstoppable lineman who helped build "America’s Team" into a dynasty and set the blueprint for future Hall of Fame tackles.

The Early Years – From Georgia Athlete to Underrated NFL Prospect

Larry Rayfield Wright’s journey to NFL greatness was anything but typical. Before he became one of the greatest offensive tackles in football history, he was just a small-town kid from Georgia with dreams of playing basketball.

Growing Up in Griffin, Georgia

Wright was born on August 23, 1945, in Griffin, Georgia, a small town 50 miles south of Atlanta.
He grew up in a working-class family, learning the value of hard work, perseverance, and discipline from an early age.
Unlike most future NFL linemen, Wright didn’t initially dream of playing professional football—his first love was basketball.
At Griffin High School, he starred as a basketball player, displaying incredible footwork, agility, and hand-eye coordination that would later help him transition to the offensive line.

A College Basketball Star Turned Football Player

Wright attended Fort Valley State University, a small historically Black college (HBCU) in Georgia, on a basketball scholarship.
His 6’6” frame, athleticism, and ability to move like a guard made him an elite basketball player.
He had dreams of playing in the NBA, but fate had other plans.
The Fort Valley State football coach noticed Wright’s size and athleticism and convinced him to try football during his junior year.
Despite having never played offensive line before, Wright quickly became one of the most dominant players in the conference, showcasing natural strength and quickness.

By the time the 1967 NFL Draft arrived, Wright was a raw but extremely promising prospect. The Dallas Cowboys took a chance on him, selecting him in the 7th round (182nd overall), not realizing they had just drafted the future anchor of their offensive line.

The Dallas Cowboys Years – Building a Dynasty in Big D

The Early Years – Tight End to Offensive Tackle Transition (1967-1969)

Wright entered the NFL as a tight end, but his size and blocking ability made Dallas coaches consider moving him to the offensive line.
He spent his first two seasons (1967-1968) primarily on special teams, learning the ins and outs of playing tackle under legendary coach Tom Landry.
Landry saw Wright’s potential as an offensive tackle, but with Hall of Famer Ralph Neely already starting at left tackle, Wright had to wait for his opportunity.
That opportunity came in 1969, when an injury forced Neely to switch positions and Wright was thrown into action at right tackle.
His first career start? Against Hall of Fame defensive end Deacon Jones, one of the most feared pass rushers in NFL history.
Not only did Wright hold his own—he dominated Jones, proving that he was ready to be the Cowboys’ full-time right tackle.

Becoming an All-Pro & Leading the Cowboys to Super Bowls (1970-1975)

By 1970, Wright had firmly established himself as one of the NFL’s best offensive linemen. With Roger Staubach at quarterback and a powerful ground game, the Cowboys offense flourished, and Wright became their most valuable protector.

From 1971 to 1975, Wright was named First-Team All-Pro four times, a testament to his dominance in both pass protection and run blocking.
He helped the Cowboys reach five Super Bowls (V, VI, X, XII, XIII), playing a critical role in two championship victories.
As the blindside protector for Staubach, Wright became known for his ability to handle the league’s best pass rushers, including Jack Youngblood, L.C. Greenwood, and Carl Eller.
His athleticism allowed him to block in space, making him a perfect fit for Tom Landry’s innovative offensive system.

Super Bowl VI – The Ultimate Redemption

After falling short in Super Bowl V, the Cowboys came back with a vengeance in 1971, winning Super Bowl VI against the Miami Dolphins in a 24-3 rout.

Wright neutralized the Dolphins’ pass rush, giving Staubach the protection he needed to win Super Bowl MVP.
Dallas ran for 252 rushing yards, thanks in large part to Wright’s dominant blocking.
With the win, Wright became a Super Bowl champion, cementing his status as one of the best tackles in football.

Super Bowl XII – A Second Championship

In 1977, Wright and the Cowboys returned to dominance, winning Super Bowl XII against the Denver Broncos.
Wright’s blocking helped lead Dallas to another championship, further establishing him as one of the greatest linemen of all time.

Retirement & Hall of Fame Recognition

After 13 dominant seasons (1967-1979), Wright retired as one of the most decorated offensive linemen in NFL history.

He played in six NFC Championship Games and won two Super Bowls.
He was inducted into the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor in 2004.
In 2006, Wright received football’s highest honor—induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his impact on the game and his contributions to the Cowboys’ dynasty.

Defining Moments of Wright’s Career

1967 – Drafted by the Cowboys in the 7th Round: A steal of a pick that would shape Dallas’ offensive line for over a decade.
1969 – First Career Start Against Deacon Jones: Proves he’s ready for stardom by dominating a Hall of Fame pass rusher.
1971 – Wins Super Bowl VI: Leads the Cowboys to their first championship.
1977 – Wins Super Bowl XII: Helps Dallas secure its second title.
2006 – Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame: Recognized as one of the greatest offensive linemen ever.

A Legacy That Shaped the Modern Offensive Tackle

Rayfield Wright wasn’t just one of the greatest Cowboys of all time—he was a pioneer at the offensive tackle position.

His unprecedented combination of size, speed, and agility set the standard for modern tackles.
He helped define the Cowboys’ dynasty, playing a crucial role in their dominant run during the 1970s.
His ability to dominate elite pass rushers while also excelling in run blocking made him one of the most complete linemen ever.

A Champion, A Hall of Famer, and One of the Greatest Offensive Tackles in NFL History.