Countdown to the season opener: Day 71 Marion Barber III

We’re counting down to the season opener (Day 71) 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 71.

Marion Barber III

Born: June 10, 1983. Plymouth, Minnesota
Position: Running back
Dallas Cowboys: 2005-2010
Awards: Pro Bowl– 2007

Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Marion Barber III played running back for the Dallas Cowboys from 2005 to 2010 after being drafted in the fourth round out of Minnesota. Nicknamed “Marion the Barbarian,” he became a fan favorite for his bruising, punishing running style and refusal to go down on first contact. Barber was primarily used as a change-of-pace and red zone back early in his career but still earned Pro Bowl honors in 2007, despite not starting a single game that season. His physicality and passion made him one of the most exciting and hard-nosed runners of his era and a fan favorite that offered hope to a fan group that wanted the next Emmitt Smith on an offense that had seen its fair struggles in the elite running back’s wake.

In 2022 the upsetting news broke that Barber was found deceased in his home, he was only 38 years of age. Barber had a history of mental health issues after his time playing in the NFL and his unfortunate demise left Cowboys fans, players and coaches shocked when the news broke. He is forever remembered by fans and family and the love for him has never been lost.

Best known for:
Barber was best known for his violent running style and unforgettable effort plays. This play style was on display during an iconic play against the New England Patriots in 2007 where he broke multiple tackles from nearly every defensive player and ran across the field from his own end zone in order to make a play and avoid the safety.

Lesser known fact:
Despite his aggressive playing style, Barber was a quiet and deeply introspective person off the field, once saying he preferred writing poetry and journaling in his spare time as a way to balance the intensity of football.