D.D. Lewis, one of the most reliable linebackers in Dallas Cowboys history and the man who gave the franchise one of its most cherished sayings, has died at the age of 79. The team confirmed his death Wednesday, sparking tributes from teammates, coaches, and fans who fondly recalled both his toughness on the field and his wit off it.
Lewis spent his entire 13-year career in Dallas, from 1968 until 1981, anchoring the Cowboys’ famed “Doomsday Defense” and helping to shape the team’s golden era under legendary coach Tom Landry. He played in five Super Bowls, winning two Super Bowl VI in 1972 and Super Bowl XII in 1978. His longevity, discipline, and leadership made him a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ identity during their rise as “America’s Team.”
While his contributions on defense earned him widespread respect, Lewis may be best remembered for one unforgettable quip about Texas Stadium, the Cowboys’ longtime home in Irving. Asked about the building’s iconic hole in the roof, Lewis famously replied, “So God can watch His favorite team play.” The line became a permanent piece of Cowboys folklore, etched into the team’s mythology and embraced by fans across generations.
Born in Knoxville, Mississippi, in 1945, Dwight Douglas “D.D.” Lewis played college football at Mississippi State, where he earned All-SEC honors. Drafted in the sixth round of the 1968 NFL Draft, he was not initially expected to become a franchise mainstay. Yet Lewis quickly proved himself invaluable, known for his intelligence, consistency, and ability to adapt within Landry’s complex defensive schemes.
Over his 13 seasons, Lewis appeared in 186 games, starting 135, and missed only one contest due to injury a testament to his remarkable durability in one of football’s most demanding positions. He was named a team captain and often served as the steady presence alongside flashier teammates like Hall of Famers Randy White and Mel Renfro.
Former Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach once described Lewis as “the definition of a Cowboy,” adding, “He wasn’t the loudest, he wasn’t the biggest name, but you always trusted him. He made sure we were lined up right and ready for anything.”
Lewis’ leadership extended beyond the locker room. He was a veteran voice during Dallas’ transition from the late-1960s near-misses to the championship teams of the 1970s. His ability to keep teammates grounded through the highs and lows earned him respect not just from fellow players, but also from coaches and opponents.
After retiring in 1981, Lewis stayed closely tied to the organization, frequently attending alumni gatherings and Cowboys events. Fans who met him often remarked on his humility and sense of humor. Though he was part of some of the biggest games in franchise history, he preferred to deflect attention and highlight the achievements of his teammates.
The news of his passing has drawn an outpouring of condolences. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones released a statement praising Lewis as “a player who embodied everything our franchise stands for toughness, loyalty, and excellence.” Former teammates also shared memories on social media, remembering him as both a fierce competitor and a gentle soul away from football.
Perhaps fittingly, many of the tributes referenced the line that defined him in Cowboys lore. For decades, the phrase “God’s favorite team” has been repeated in broadcasts, merchandise, and fan chants. Though Texas Stadium was demolished in 2010, Lewis’ words continue to echo in Arlington at AT&T Stadium, serving as a reminder of the pride and faith that Cowboys fans carry into every season.
Lewis is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. In a family statement, he was remembered as “a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a true Cowboy to the very end.”
The Cowboys are expected to honor his memory with a tribute during the upcoming NFL season. For a franchise that thrives on tradition, Lewis’ legacy will endure not only in the record books, but in the heart of every fan who still looks up at the sky on game day and smiles at the thought that maybe, just maybe, God really is watching His favorite team play.
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