The Dallas Cowboys, an NFL team, were founded in 1960 as the league's first modern-era expansion franchise.
Founding Details
Clint Murchison Jr. and Bedford Wynne secured the franchise on January 28, 1960, after negotiations with NFL owners, including a deal with George Preston Marshall. The team initially considered names like Dallas Steers and Rangers before settling on Cowboys on March 19, 1960, to avoid confusion with local baseball. They played their first game on September 24, 1960, at the Cotton Bowl against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Early Context
The franchise emerged amid competition from Lamar Hunt's American Football League, prompting NFL expansion to Dallas. Tex Schramm became general manager, Tom Landry head coach, and Gil Brandt player personnel director, setting the foundation for future success.
