DREW PEARSON



In 1973, Pearson was selected as a free agent by the Dallas Cowboys, where he rose to become one of the NFL’s greatest wide receivers, earning career records of 489 receptions and 7,822 receiving yards, along with 189 rushing yards, 155 yards returning kickoffs, and 50 touchdowns (48 receiving and 2 fumble recoveries). Named one of the Top 20 Pro Football All-Time Wide Receivers, he was also recognized for his achievements by being named to the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team.
Pearson was named All-Pro 3 times (1974, 1976-77) All-NFC in 1975 and 2nd Team All-NFC in 1978. In addition, Pearson was a Pro Bowler in 1974, 1976 and 1977. Pearson led the National Football Conference (NFC) in pass receptions in 1976 with 58. He served as offensive captain for the Cowboys in 1977, 1978, 1982 and 1983. Pearson helped the Cowboys to three Super Bowl appearances and a victory in Super Bowl XII in 1978. He also scored a touchdown in Super Bowl X. In 1980, the Cowboys selected Pearson as their nominee for NFL Man of the Year. Pearson is known around the NFL as “Mr. Clutch” for his numerous clutch catches in game-winning situations, especially the "Hail Mary" reception from Roger Staubach that sealed the victory in a 1975 playoff game, one of the most famous plays in NFL history.