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 are running through 100 Days of Cowboys. So sit back and enjoy some Cowboys history while we countdown to football.
Today – number 9
Bob Hayes
Born: December 20, 1942. Jacksonville, Florida
Position: Wide receiver
Dallas Cowboys: 1965-1974
Awards: Super Bowl champion- VI
All-Pro- 1966, 1967, 1968
Pro Bowl- 1965, 1966, 1967
NFL receiving touchdowns leader- 1965, 1966
Bob Hayes played wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys from 1965 to 1974, revolutionizing the position with his Olympic-caliber speed. Nicknamed “Bullet Bob,” Hayes won a gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1964 Olympics before joining the NFL, where his unmatched speed forced defenses to adopt zone coverage and deep safety help, changes that reshaped modern football strategy. Hayes was a three-time Pro Bowler, three-time All-Pro, and helped the Cowboys capture Super Bowl VI. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009, the only man to win both an Olympic gold medal and a Super Bowl ring.
Best known for:
Hayes was best known for being the fastest man in football, using his Olympic speed to stretch defenses and change how the game was played.
Lesser known fact:
Hayes once tied the world record for the 100-yard dash while running on a cinder track, showcasing the raw speed that terrified NFL defenders.
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