Former Cowboys LB Lee Roy Jordan dies

Field Level Media|published: Sat 30th August, 14:27 2025

Nov 16, 1969; Washington, DC, USA; FILE PHOTO; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Jethro Pugh (75), Bob Lilly (74), and Lee Roy Jordan (55) against the Washington Redskins at RFK Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dick Raphael-Imagn Images

Former Dallas Cowboys linebacker Lee Roy Jordan, who starred as part of the team's fabled "Doomsday Defense," died Saturday. He was 84.

Jordan was in hospice and passed away in Dallas of kidney failure, his son David told the Dallas Morning News.

A five-time Pro Bowl selection, Jordan was named to the Cowboys' Silver Anniversary team. He also was inducted into the team's Ring of Honor in 1989.

"With fearless instincts, leadership and a relentless work ethic, Jordan was the embodiment of the Cowboys spirt," team owner Jerry Jones said in a statement. "Off the field, his commitment to his community was the centerpiece of his life after retiring in 1976. His legacy lives on as a model of dedication, integrity and toughness."

A three-time Super Bowl champion, Jordan recorded 32 interceptions -- including three that were returned for a touchdown -- and 19.5 sacks in 187 career games (174 starts) with the Cowboys. He was selected by the team with the sixth overall pick of the 1963 draft out of Alabama.

--Field Level Media

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