Countdown to the season opener: Day 98 Ron Springs

We’re counting down to the season opener (Day 98) with some Cowboys history

We’re counting down the days until the Dallas Cowboys battle the Philadelphia Eagles in the season opener of the 2025 NFL season. To pass the time and mark the days, we asked some of our writers to rank their top-100 players in Cowboys history using no particular criteria, and put the results together into one list. The further away you get from the top 20 or so, the more varied the opinions. Sometimes it is about more than just stats. Things like fame level, length of career in Dallas, the era they played in – all can affect where an individual might rank them. So sit back and enjoy some Cowboys history while we countdown to football.

Today – number 98.

Ron Springs

Born: November 4, 1956. Williamsburg, Virginia
Position: Running Back
Dallas Cowboys: 1979-1984
Awards: N/A

Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images

Ron Springs played for the Dallas Cowboys from 1979 to 1984 after being drafted in the fifth round out of Ohio State. A powerful and versatile running back, Springs served primarily as the teams fullback, but he was also a capable runner and receiver out of the backfield and was at the beginning of how head coaches would view versatile backs in the league. He played a key role in the Cowboys’ offense during the early 1980s, particularly in tandem with Tony Dorsett. Springs was known for his tough running style, strong blocking, and ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game.

Best known for:
Springs was best known for being a dependable fullback who could do it all. Whether it was block, run, or catch he did it all to a high degree of efficiency, while serving as a key complement to Tony Dorsett in the Cowboys’ backfield.

Lesser known fact:
Springs lead the league in receiving at the running back position in 1983, finishing with 73 catches and setting a franchise record. An impressive feat for a fullback and a sign of his all-around skill set. His 73 receptions is still third-most by a running back in Cowboys history.