An Unforgettable NFL Player: Walt Garrison
Walt Garrison, an iconic fullback for the Dallas Cowboys from 1966-1974, accomplished feats that would be unimaginable in today’s NFL. Over the course of nine seasons, he played 119 regular season games and 13 playoff games, leaving a lasting impact on the team. Even more impressive, Garrison still holds the fourth spot on the Cowboys’ all-time list for average yards per rush (4.32) and is ranked ninth in career rushing yards (3,491). However, Garrison’s extraordinary talent extended beyond football. Born and raised in Denton, Texas, he indulged in his love for rodeo during the offseasons. In fact, he excelled at steer wrestling, a skill that garnered him just as much, if not more, enjoyment than playing football. In today’s NFL, the high-stakes and financial obligations of the game would undoubtedly prevent players from pursuing such extracurricular activities. Moreover, the Cowboys themselves were not entirely pleased with Garrison’s rodeo endeavors. Despite this, he continued rodeoing during the offseasons and even participated in a local rodeo the night before a home game during his rookie year in 1966.
Every year, the Cowboys would stay at a Holiday Inn, allowing players to have free time until a curfew at 11 p.m. Garrison would take advantage of this opportunity by driving to a nearby rodeo in Mansfield, competing, and returning in time for curfew. At first, Garrison thought this arrangement was acceptable since he only played a minor role as a backup fullback and kickoff returner. However, Coach Landry put an end to his participation in the rodeo as soon as he discovered it, even though Garrison believed he was at a higher risk of injury during football games than in rodeo. Ironically, it was a knee injury that Garrison sustained while steer wrestling in 1975 that ultimately ended his NFL career, and yet he held no bitterness or regrets about his decision. In fact, he believed the injury and his own abilities made retirement an easy choice. At the age of 30, Garrison retired from the game as a running back, having spent a commendable nine years in the NFL.
Interestingly, Garrison’s injury led to a new chapter in his life. Shortly thereafter, he began working for US Smokeless Tobacco, a company that approached him after seeing him in an NFL Films documentary. The documentary highlighted Garrison’s unique offseason occupation, showcasing his rodeo skills as well as his affinity for chewing tobacco. This unexpected opportunity introduced Garrison to the world of television and set him on a new career path.
Despite the apparent differences between football and rodeo, Garrison noted several parallels between the two sports. Steer wrestling, his preferred event, required speed, energy, and intense focus, qualities that also played a vital role in football. In fact, Garrison believed that the intense competitiveness of both sports demanded a similar level of commitment and dedication. Lamenting the financial disparity between the two sports, Garrison revealed that rodeo was his first love and a pursuit he would have chosen over football if it offered greater financial rewards. Despite this, he continued to indulge in his passion for horse riding and team roping well into his retirement.
Garrison’s accomplishments in rodeo were far from insignificant. He earned a reputation as a skilled steer wrestler within rodeo circles, earning respect not only as an NFL star trying his hand at rodeo but as a genuine competitor in the sport. The fact that Garrison achieved greater success on the football field than in rodeo speaks volumes about his character and exceptional abilities. As a versatile back weighing in at a solid 205 pounds and standing 6 feet tall, Garrison possessed a unique set of skills. He could effectively block, run, and catch the ball. In fact, he led the Cowboys in receptions during the 1971 season, demonstrating his versatility as a player.
Walt Garrison’s time as an NFL player may have come to an end, but his impact on the league and the Cowboys remains unforgettable. His achievements in both football and rodeo showcase his exceptional talent and unwavering passion. While it may be difficult to imagine a player engaging in similar activities in today’s NFL, Garrison’s legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to pursue their passions both on and off the field.
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