Countdown to the season opener: Day 79 Tony Tolbert

We’re counting down to the season opener (Day 79) 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 running through 100 Days of Cowboys. So sit back and enjoy some Cowboys history while we countdown to football.

Today – number 79.

Tony Tolbert

Born: December 29, 1967. Tuskegee, Alabama
Position: Defensive end
Dallas Cowboys: 1989-1997
Awards: Super Bowl champion- XXVII, XXVIII, XXX
All-Pro- 1996
Pro Bowl– 1996

Lou Capozzola-Imagn Images

Tony Tolbert played defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys from 1989 to 1997 after being drafted in the fourth round out of UTEP. A quiet but dominant force on the defensive line, Tolbert developed into one of the most consistent and underrated pass rushers of the 1990s. He recorded 59 career sacks and was a key part of the Cowboys’ defense during their Super Bowl dynasty, helping the team win three championships. Tolbert earned Pro Bowl honors in 1996 and was respected for his work ethic, versatility, and ability to play through injuries.

Best known for:
Tolbert was best known for being a dependable and productive edge rusher during the Cowboys’ 1990s Super Bowl run, often doing the dirty work that allowed stars around him to shine.

Lesser known fact:
Despite playing at a small school and entering the league with little fanfare, Tolbert never missed more than one game in any of his nine NFL seasons, an ironman streak that reflected his durability and toughness in the trenches. This led to him garnering a huge Cowboys following in the 1990’s and getting the recognition he deserved.