đ¨ BREAKING: Former Dallas Cowboys Running Back Scott Laidlaw Passes Away at 72 đ
Scott Laidlaw, a key member of the Dallas Cowboys during their Super Bowl victories, has passed away at the age of 72, according to a report by Jonah Javad of WFAA. Laidlaw, who spent six seasons in the NFL, was an integral part of the Cowboysâ ball-control offense and played a pivotal role in the teamâs success under legendary head coach Tom Landry.
A Celebrated Career with the Cowboys and Giants
Laidlawâs career with the Dallas Cowboys spanned five seasons (1975-79), where he earned recognition as a fullback and halfback. He was an instrumental part of the Cowboysâ offense, often serving as a bruising force in the running game. During his tenure in Dallas, Laidlaw appeared in two Super Bowls and was part of the teamâs Super Bowl XII victory over the Denver Broncos.
In his six-season career, Laidlaw rushed for 255 yards on 16 carries and scored nine touchdowns. He also caught 74 passes for 668 yards and three more touchdowns, contributing as a dual-threat out of the backfield.
Super Bowl Appearances and Legacy
Though Laidlaw wasnât a featured player in every season, he proved crucial in the Cowboysâ playoff runs. He was the starting running back during the Cowboysâ 1978 playoff run, which ended in a 35-31 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XIII. Laidlaw’s role in that postseason solidified his importance to the team, even if his contributions didnât always show up in the stats.
Before the Cowboys’ Super Bowl XII win in 1977, Laidlaw played in a pivotal role in the teamâs ball-control offense, which was a staple of Tom Landryâs strategy. His strong performances helped the Cowboys dominate the game on the ground, and his ability to both run and catch passes made him a valuable asset.
A Nod to His Injury and Return
Laidlaw was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 14th round of the 1975 NFL Draft, a selection that would go down in franchise history as one of the best 14th-round picks the Cowboys ever made. A knee injury in his rookie season limited Laidlaw to just eight games, eventually requiring surgery. Despite that setback, he managed to bounce back, starting seven games in 1976âthe most in any single season of his career.
That year, he had 94 carries for 424 yards and three touchdowns, along with 38 catches for 325 yards. He proved his resilience and solidified his spot on the Cowboysâ roster, earning a reputation as a reliable contributor when called upon.
From Cowboys to Giants
After his tenure with the Cowboys, Laidlaw was released in 1979 and later signed with NFC East rival, the New York Giants in 1980. While his time with the Giants was shorter, his time in Dallas is what cemented his legacy as an integral part of the Cowboys’ success during the late 1970s.
Honoring His Legacy
In December 2025, Laidlaw, along with other members of the Cowboys’ rookie class of 1975, was honored during a home game in Dallas. His impact on the team, both on and off the field, remains a point of pride for the Cowboysâ faithful.
As a native of Hawthorne, California, Laidlaw’s journey to the NFL was as much about his tenacity and work ethic as it was about his talent. He was celebrated not only for his football contributions but also for the person he wasâa player who always gave his best for his team.
A Final Goodbye
Laidlaw leaves behind a lasting impact on the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL. He played an important role in the Cowboysâ success during the late 1970s, both as a key offensive player and as a part of the teamâs legendary defense. He will be remembered not only for his on-field performances but for his dedication and resilience.
The Dallas Cowboys and NFL fans alike will surely honor Laidlawâs legacy as one of the unsung heroes of the teamâs Super Bowl history, and his memory will remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of watching him play.
