Ralph Neely: The Unsung Hero of America's Team

Ralph Neely, a name that might not ring a bell for the average football fan, was a powerhouse offensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys during the 1960s and 70s. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1943, Neely became a cornerstone of the Cowboys' offensive line, playing a pivotal role in the team's rise to prominence. Drafted in 1965, Neely's career spanned over a decade, during which he helped the Cowboys secure two Super Bowl victories. Despite his significant contributions, Neely remains an unsung hero, overshadowed by the flashier stars of his era. But why is it that Neely, a key player in one of the most successful franchises in NFL history, doesn't get the recognition he deserves?

First off, let's talk about the era in which Neely played. The 1960s and 70s were a time when the NFL was dominated by larger-than-life personalities and high-profile quarterbacks. Players like Joe Namath and Terry Bradshaw were the faces of the league, while offensive linemen like Neely toiled in relative obscurity. Yet, without the protection and blocking provided by players like Neely, those quarterbacks wouldn't have had the time to make their legendary plays. Neely's ability to protect his quarterback and open up running lanes was second to none, making him an invaluable asset to the Cowboys.

Neely's career was marked by consistency and durability. He played in 168 games over 13 seasons, a testament to his resilience and toughness. In an era where the game was much more physically demanding, Neely's ability to stay on the field was nothing short of remarkable. His presence on the offensive line was a stabilizing force for the Cowboys, allowing them to build a dynasty that would dominate the NFL for years to come. Yet, despite his impressive career, Neely has not been inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a glaring oversight that speaks volumes about the undervaluation of offensive linemen.

The lack of recognition for Neely is indicative of a broader issue in the NFL: the tendency to overlook the contributions of offensive linemen. These players are the unsung heroes of the game, doing the dirty work in the trenches while the skill position players bask in the glory. Neely's career is a prime example of this phenomenon. Despite being named to the All-Pro team multiple times and playing a crucial role in two Super Bowl victories, Neely remains largely forgotten by the mainstream football community.

It's time to give Ralph Neely the recognition he deserves. His contributions to the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL as a whole cannot be overstated. Neely was a key player in one of the most successful teams in NFL history, and his impact on the game should not be overlooked. By shining a light on players like Neely, we can begin to appreciate the full scope of what it takes to build a championship team.

In a world where flashy plays and big personalities dominate the headlines, it's easy to forget about the players who make it all possible. Ralph Neely was one of those players, a true unsung hero of America's Team. It's time to give him his due.