We’re counting down to the season opener (Day 64) 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 64
Pat Donovan
Born: July 1, 1953. Helena, Montana
Position: Offensive tackle
Dallas Cowboys: 1975-1983
Awards: Super Bowl champion- XII
All-Pro- 1981
Pro Bowl– 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981
Photo by Focus on Sport via Getty Images
Pat Donovan played offensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys from 1975 to 1983 after being drafted in the fourth round out of Stanford. Initially starting as a defensive lineman, Donovan transitioned to offense after the team needed help to fill positions on the line. Thanks to the coaches past experience transitioning defensive linemen to the offensive line, Donovan quickly became a fixture at both right and left tackle and held the starting position for six seasons. Known for his athleticism and intelligence, he starred in four Pro Bowls and helped anchor the offensive line during an era when Dallas was a perennial Super Bowl contender. Donovan was a key protector for quarterbacks like Roger Staubach and Danny White, and he helped lead the Cowboys to a victory in Super Bowl XII.
Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
Best known for:
Donovan was best known for his durability and elite pass protection, starting 129 consecutive games and serving as a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ offensive line during their late ’70s and early ’80s success.
Lesser known fact:
Before his NFL career, Donovan was a state champion shot put and discus thrower in high school and once held the Oregon state record, showcasing the raw strength and athletic ability that would later define his trench play in Dallas.
