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The Ultimate Guide To The Dallas Cowboys 1990 Roster

Trends January 16, 2025

Did the 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster produce a Super Bowl victory?

The 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster was a talented and experienced group led by quarterback Troy Aikman, running back Emmitt Smith, and wide receiver Michael Irvin. The team finished the regular season with a record of 7-9, but they made it to the playoffs as a wild card team. In the playoffs, the Cowboys defeated the Chicago Bears, the Los Angeles Rams, and the San Francisco 49ers to advance to Super Bowl XXIV. In the Super Bowl, the Cowboys defeated the Buffalo Bills by a score of 52-17.

The 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster is considered to be one of the greatest teams in NFL history. The team was led by a number of Hall of Fame players, including Aikman, Smith, Irvin, and defensive end Charles Haley. The Cowboys also had a number of other talented players, such as running back Herschel Walker, wide receiver Alvin Harper, and linebacker Ken Norton Jr. The team's success was due in part to its high-powered offense, which was led by Aikman and Smith. The Cowboys also had a strong defense, which was led by Haley and Norton.

The 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster is a reminder of the great success that the team has had over the years. The team has won five Super Bowls, and they have been to the playoffs 30 times. The Cowboys are one of the most popular teams in the NFL, and they have a large and passionate fan base.

Here is a table of the key players on the 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster:

Name	Position	College
Troy Aikman	Quarterback	UCLA
Emmitt Smith	Running back	Florida
Michael Irvin	Wide receiver	Miami (FL)
Charles Haley	Defensive end	James Madison
Herschel Walker	Running back	Georgia
Alvin Harper	Wide receiver	Tennessee
Ken Norton Jr.	Linebacker	UCLA

The 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster is a testament to the team's success over the years. The team has a long and storied history, and they are one of the most popular teams in the NFL. The Cowboys have a bright future, and they are poised to make another run at the Super Bowl.

Dallas Cowboys 1990 Roster

The Dallas Cowboys 1990 roster was a talented and experienced group that won Super Bowl XXIV. The team was led by quarterback Troy Aikman, running back Emmitt Smith, and wide receiver Michael Irvin. Here are seven key aspects of the roster:

Quarterback: Troy Aikman
Running back: Emmitt Smith
Wide receiver: Michael Irvin
Defensive end: Charles Haley
Linebacker: Ken Norton Jr.
Head coach: Jimmy Johnson
Record: 13-3

These seven players were all key contributors to the Cowboys' success in 1990. Aikman was a Pro Bowl selection, and he led the NFL in passing yards. Smith was also a Pro Bowl selection, and he led the NFL in rushing yards. Irvin was a key target for Aikman, and he led the NFL in receiving yards. Haley was a dominant pass rusher, and he was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Norton was a key member of the Cowboys' defense, and he was named to the Pro Bowl. Johnson was a great leader for the Cowboys, and he helped to turn the team into a winner. The Cowboys' 13-3 record was the best in the NFL in 1990, and they went on to win Super Bowl XXIV.

1. Quarterback

Troy Aikman was the starting quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys from 1989 to 2000. He was a key member of the Cowboys' Super Bowl XXX victory in 1995, and he was named the NFL's MVP that season. Aikman was a three-time Pro Bowl selection, and he led the NFL in passing yards in 1992 and 1993. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006.

Leadership
Aikman was a natural leader, and he was able to get the most out of his teammates. He was a vocal leader on the field, and he was always willing to take responsibility for his mistakes. Aikman's leadership was a key factor in the Cowboys' success in the 1990s.
Accuracy
Aikman was one of the most accurate passers in the NFL. He had a quick release, and he was able to put the ball where his receivers could catch it. Aikman's accuracy was a key factor in the Cowboys' offensive success.
Decision-making
Aikman was a smart quarterback, and he was able to make quick decisions. He was able to read defenses well, and he was always able to find the open receiver. Aikman's decision-making was a key factor in the Cowboys' success.
Clutch performer
Aikman was a clutch performer, and he was always at his best in big games. He led the Cowboys to victory in Super Bowl XXX, and he was named the game's MVP. Aikman's clutch performances were a key factor in the Cowboys' success in the 1990s.

Troy Aikman was a key member of the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster. His leadership, accuracy, decision-making, and clutch performances were all key factors in the Cowboys' success that season. Aikman was a great quarterback, and he is considered to be one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history.

2. Running back

Emmitt Smith was a key member of the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster. He was the NFL's leading rusher that season, and he helped the Cowboys win Super Bowl XXIV. Smith was a key part of the Cowboys' offense, and he was one of the most feared running backs in the NFL.

Smith was a powerful runner, and he had great vision and balance. He was also a very good receiver out of the backfield. Smith was a complete running back, and he was able to contribute in a variety of ways.

Smith's contributions were a key factor in the Cowboys' success in 1990. He was a key part of the Cowboys' offense, and he helped the team win its first Super Bowl in over two decades.

Here are some key insights about Emmitt Smith and his connection to the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster:

Smith was the NFL's leading rusher in 1990, and he helped the Cowboys win Super Bowl XXIV.
Smith was a key part of the Cowboys' offense, and he was one of the most feared running backs in the NFL.
Smith's contributions were a key factor in the Cowboys' success in 1990.

Emmitt Smith is one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. He was a key member of the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster, and he helped the team win Super Bowl XXIV.

3. Wide receiver

Michael Irvin was a key member of the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster. He was one of the most talented and productive wide receivers in the NFL, and he was a key part of the Cowboys' offense. Irvin was a big and physical receiver, and he was very good at making contested catches. He was also very fast, and he was able to stretch the field for the Cowboys' offense. Irvin was a key target for quarterback Troy Aikman, and he was one of the most dangerous receivers in the NFL.

Irvin's contributions were a key factor in the Cowboys' success in 1990. He was the Cowboys' leading receiver that season, and he helped the team win Super Bowl XXIV. Irvin was a key part of the Cowboys' offense, and he was one of the most feared receivers in the NFL.

Here are some key insights about Michael Irvin and his connection to the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster:

Irvin was one of the most talented and productive wide receivers in the NFL.
He was a key part of the Cowboys' offense, and he was one of the most feared receivers in the NFL.
Irvin's contributions were a key factor in the Cowboys' success in 1990.

Michael Irvin is one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history. He was a key member of the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster, and he helped the team win Super Bowl XXIV.

4. Defensive end

Charles Haley was a key member of the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster. He was one of the most dominant pass rushers in the NFL, and he was a key part of the Cowboys' defense. Haley was a four-time Pro Bowl selection, and he was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1990. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015.

Pass rushing
Haley was one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL. He had a quick first step, and he was able to get to the quarterback quickly. Haley was also very strong, and he was able to power through blockers. He was a major threat to opposing quarterbacks, and he was a key part of the Cowboys' success.
Run stopping
Haley was not only a great pass rusher, but he was also a very good run stopper. He was able to set the edge of the defense, and he was able to stop running backs from getting outside. Haley was a complete defensive end, and he was able to contribute in a variety of ways.
Leadership
Haley was a leader on the Cowboys' defense. He was a vocal leader, and he was always willing to take responsibility for his mistakes. Haley was a great role model for his teammates, and he helped to make the Cowboys' defense one of the best in the NFL.
Clutch performer
Haley was a clutch performer, and he was always at his best in big games. He was a key part of the Cowboys' Super Bowl XXX victory in 1995, and he was named the game's MVP. Haley was a big-game player, and he was always able to rise to the occasion.

Charles Haley was a key member of the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster. His pass rushing, run stopping, leadership, and clutch performances were all key factors in the Cowboys' success that season. Haley was a great defensive end, and he is considered to be one of the best defensive ends in NFL history.

5. Linebacker

Ken Norton Jr. was a key member of the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster. He was a starting linebacker for the Cowboys, and he was one of the team's best defensive players. Norton was a physical and aggressive linebacker, and he was very good at stopping the run. He was also a good pass rusher, and he was able to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Run stopping
Norton was one of the best run stoppers in the NFL. He was very good at reading the opposing offense, and he was able to diagnose and stop running plays. Norton was also very strong, and he was able to shed blockers and make tackles. He was a key part of the Cowboys' defense, and he helped to make the team one of the best in the NFL against the run.
Pass rushing
Norton was also a good pass rusher. He was very quick off the line of scrimmage, and he was able to get to the quarterback quickly. Norton was also very strong, and he was able to power through blockers and get to the quarterback. He was a threat to opposing quarterbacks, and he was able to generate pressure and force turnovers.
Leadership
Norton was a leader on the Cowboys' defense. He was a vocal leader, and he was always willing to take responsibility for his mistakes. Norton was a great role model for his teammates, and he helped to make the Cowboys' defense one of the best in the NFL.
Clutch performer
Norton was a clutch performer, and he was always at his best in big games. He was a key part of the Cowboys' Super Bowl XXX victory in 1995, and he was named the game's MVP. Norton was a big-game player, and he was always able to rise to the occasion.

Ken Norton Jr. was a key member of the Dallas Cowboys' 1990 roster. His run stopping, pass rushing, leadership, and clutch performances were all key factors in the Cowboys' success that season. Norton was a great linebacker, and he is considered to be one of the best linebackers in NFL history.

6. Head coach

Jimmy Johnson was the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys from 1989 to 1993. He was a key figure in the Cowboys' success in the 1990s, and he helped to turn the team into a perennial contender.

Johnson was a tough and demanding coach, but he was also fair and respected by his players. He was known for his attention to detail and his ability to motivate his players to perform at their best. Johnson also had a great eye for talent, and he was able to assemble a roster of talented players who were willing to work hard and play together as a team.

The 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster was one of the most talented teams in the NFL. The team was led by quarterback Troy Aikman, running back Emmitt Smith, and wide receiver Michael Irvin. The Cowboys also had a number of other talented players, such as defensive end Charles Haley and linebacker Ken Norton Jr.

Johnson's leadership was a key factor in the Cowboys' success in 1990. He was able to get his players to buy into his system and play together as a team. Johnson also made some key strategic decisions that helped the Cowboys win games. For example, he decided to start Aikman at quarterback over Steve Walsh, and he also decided to use a more aggressive defensive scheme.

The Cowboys finished the 1990 season with a record of 13-3, and they went on to win Super Bowl XXIV. Johnson was named the NFL Coach of the Year, and he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020.

7. Conclusion

Jimmy Johnson was a key figure in the Dallas Cowboys' success in the 1990s. He was a tough and demanding coach, but he was also fair and respected by his players. Johnson's leadership was a key factor in the Cowboys' success, and he helped to turn the team into a perennial contender.

8. Record

The Dallas Cowboys' 1990 regular season record of 13-3 was a significant achievement that contributed to their overall success that season. Several key factors played a role in this impressive record:

Offensive production:
The Cowboys' offense was one of the most potent in the NFL in 1990, led by quarterback Troy Aikman, running back Emmitt Smith, and wide receiver Michael Irvin. Aikman threw for over 3,000 yards and 23 touchdowns, while Smith rushed for over 1,100 yards and 14 touchdowns. Irvin was Aikman's favorite target, catching 71 passes for over 1,200 yards and 8 touchdowns.
Defensive dominance:
The Cowboys' defense was equally impressive, allowing the fewest points in the NFL in 1990. Defensive end Charles Haley was a force, recording 10 sacks and 10 forced fumbles. Linebacker Ken Norton Jr. was also a key contributor, intercepting 5 passes and returning 2 for touchdowns.
Coaching:
Head coach Jimmy Johnson's leadership was instrumental in the Cowboys' success in 1990. Johnson was known for his tough and demanding style, but he was also able to motivate his players to perform at their best. His strategic decisions, such as starting Aikman at quarterback and using a more aggressive defensive scheme, proved to be effective.
Team chemistry:
The Cowboys had a close-knit team in 1990, with players who were willing to work hard and play together. This chemistry was evident on the field, as the Cowboys were able to overcome adversity and win close games.

The Dallas Cowboys' 13-3 record in 1990 was a testament to the team's talent, coaching, and chemistry. This impressive regular season record set the stage for the Cowboys' eventual Super Bowl victory in 1991.

FAQs on "Dallas Cowboys 1990 Roster"

The 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster featured a group of talented and dedicated players who contributed to the team's success that season, ultimately leading to a Super Bowl victory. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about this iconic roster:

Question 1: Who were some of the key players on the 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster?

Answer: The roster included star players such as quarterback Troy Aikman, running back Emmitt Smith, wide receiver Michael Irvin, defensive end Charles Haley, and linebacker Ken Norton Jr., among others.

Question 2: What were the strengths of the 1990 Dallas Cowboys team?

Answer: The team showcased a potent offense led by Aikman, Smith, and Irvin, while the defense was formidable with players like Haley and Norton Jr., allowing the fewest points in the NFL that season.

Question 3: Who was the head coach of the 1990 Dallas Cowboys?

Answer: Jimmy Johnson served as the head coach, known for his demanding style and strategic leadership that helped shape the team's success.

Question 4: What was the regular season record for the 1990 Dallas Cowboys?

Answer: The team finished the regular season with an impressive 13-3 record, showcasing their dominance and consistency throughout the season.

Question 5: Did the 1990 Dallas Cowboys win the Super Bowl?

Answer: Yes, the team went on to win Super Bowl XXIV, defeating the Buffalo Bills by a score of 52-17, solidifying their place in NFL history.

The 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster remains a testament to the team's legacy of success and its impact on the sport of football. The combination of talented players, strong leadership, and strategic coaching created a formidable team that left a lasting mark on the NFL.

Transition to the next article section: The 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster serves as an example of teamwork, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. Their achievements continue to inspire and motivate football players and fans alike.

Conclusion on the 1990 Dallas Cowboys Roster

The 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster was a symbol of excellence and teamwork that culminated in a Super Bowl victory. The combination of exceptional players, astute leadership, and strategic coaching created a formidable force that left an indelible mark on the NFL. Each member of the roster contributed to the team's success, showcasing their dedication, talent, and commitment to the sport.

The legacy of the 1990 Dallas Cowboys roster extends beyond their on-field achievements. They serve as an inspiration to aspiring football players and enthusiasts, demonstrating the power of teamwork, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. Their story continues to resonate and motivate, reminding us of the heights that can be reached when individuals come together with a shared goal.