Pettis Norman began his NFL career in 1962 with the Dallas Cowboys, where he played until 1970. As a tight end, he was known for his athleticism and consistency, catching 124 passes for 1,672 yards and 14 touchdowns with the team.
He was part of the Cowboys’ first Super Bowl team, which narrowly lost to the Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl V. Notably, Norman remains one of only a few tight ends in Cowboys history to average over 13 yards per catch with at least 100 receptions. His on-field contributions were significant during the Cowboys’ formative years as a competitive franchise.
Trade Sparks Controversy Amid Norman’s Outspoken Civil Rights Advocacy and Locker Room Activism
In 1971, Norman was traded to the San Diego Chargers in exchange for future Hall of Fame wide receiver Lance Alworth. This move was met with backlash from some of Norman’s teammates, particularly among Black players who believed the trade was politically motivated.
Norman had been active in civil rights protests in Dallas, which some suspected played a role in the team’s decision to trade him. Calvin Hill, a Hall of Fame running back, acknowledged the anger among the players and alluded to the racial and political tensions behind the scenes.
Pettis Norman (NFL)Beyond his football accomplishments, Norman was a passionate civil rights advocate. During his NFL career, he served in the Texas Army National Guard and remained active in pushing for social justice. He was instrumental in challenging racial norms within the Cowboys organization.
One of his most notable acts was persuading coach Tom Landry to end the segregation of hotel rooms during team travel. Norman’s activism extended beyond football, as he used his platform to confront systemic racism and promote equality within both sports and society at large.
Championing Equality Beyond the Field: Norman’s Legacy in Business and Civil Rights
After retiring from professional football, Norman continued his work in civil rights and community development. He became the first Black official at a Dallas bank and, in 1993, founded the Dallas Together Forum.
This organization aimed to enhance opportunities for minorities and women by advocating for increased hiring and equitable distribution of business contracts. Norman’s efforts had a lasting influence on economic inclusion in Dallas and helped open doors for marginalized groups.
Pettis Norman passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy that transcended football. The Dallas Cowboys honored his memory, praising his leadership, community involvement, and tireless advocacy for equal opportunity.
Norman’s story serves as a powerful example of how athletes can use their influence to affect meaningful change. His contributions on the field were matched—and perhaps exceeded—by his lifelong commitment to justice, equality, and service to others.
