THE Dallas Cowboys have revealed the death of a former star from the 1960s.
Cowboys icon Pettis Norman has died at the age of 86, per the team.
Dallas Cowboys legend Pettis Norman, second from right, seen before an NFL playoff game in 1970[/caption]
Norman was also an entrepreneur and civil rights activist[/caption]
Norman was also known as a civil rights activist after his football days.
The Cowboys confirmed the news of Norman’s death with a statement on social media.
“We mourn the passing of former tight end and civil rights advocate Pettis Norman,” the franchise wrote.
“Known for his selfless leadership, commitment to community, and dedication to creating equal opportunity, we were incredibly proud and grateful to share his remarkable story recently.”
Norman was selected by the Dallas Texans in the 1962 AFL Draft but never played for the team.
He would join the Cowboys as a free agent in that same year.
The former NFL tight tight played nine seasons with the Cowboys.
During that span, Norman recorded 124 catches, 14 touchdowns, and 1,672 receiving yards.
He spent his last three seasons with the San Diego Chargers, totaling 59 receptions for 820 yards and one touchdown, before his retirement in 1973.
When he wasn’t playing football, Norman was also an entrepreneur and a civil rights activist.
He worked in real estate, apartments, restaurant franchising, and single-family housing.
Norman influenced the changing of the team’s roommate assignments.
“[Norman] passed away peacefully in his sleep . . . surrounded by his loving wife, daughters, grandson, and great grandchildren,” Norman’s family‘s statement read.
“A strong advocate for civil rights and dedicated to creating opportunities for all, Mr. Norman was a respected business executive and civic leader, known widely for his accomplishments both on and off the field.
“He leaves behind a legacy of selfless leadership, advocacy on behalf of underserved people, and a deep commitment to his community.”
Norman also played for the San Diego Chargers from 1971 to 1973[/caption]
Fans sent messages following the news of Norman’s passing.
“RIP Pettit Norman! You’ll be remembered by cowboys nation !” one wrote.
“RIP legend,” another commented.
“We are gonna miss you,” a third added.
