After more than a decade of waiting, Dallas Cowboys legend Darren Woodson thought this was his year.
But alas, once again he did not receive the call to Canton. … shocking to many in Cowboys Nation.
The iconic safety, who spent his entire 12-year career with the Cowboys, was not selected as part of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025 as announced Thursday.
Woodson, who retired in 2004 as Dallas’ all-time leading tackler with 1,350 career stops, was a cornerstone of the Cowboys' dynasty that captured three Super Bowls in the 1990s. A five-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team All-Pro selection, Woodson revolutionized the safety position with a rare blend of size, speed, and coverage ability.
Selected 37th overall of the 1992 NFL Draft, Woodson's journey to NFL stardom was anything but conventional. Cowboys defensive coordinator Dave Campo spotted the undersized college linebacker during Arizona State's pro day and envisioned him as a safety. That vision proved prophetic, as Woodson would go on to become one of the most versatile defensive backs of his era.
Throughout his career, Woodson accumulated 23 interceptions, 11 sacks, 12 forced fumbles, and 11 fumble recoveries. However, his impact went far beyond the statistics. He was known for his ability to cover slot receivers - a rare skill for a safety in his era - while maintaining the physical presence to support against the run.
During the Cowboys' championship runs, Woodson played a crucial role. His leadership in the secondary helped establish Dallas as one of the most dominant defensive units of the 1990s.
Someday, maybe Woodson will receive his gold jacket and take his place among football's greatest players.
But for now? The Cowboys' 1990s dynasty ia represented in Canton by Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, Deion Sanders, Larry Allen, Michael Irvin, and Charles Haley … but not yet Darren Woodson.
