The Cowboys have had a long and rich history with players from small schools. Defensive tackle Jethro Pugh out of Elizabeth (N.C.) City State was the first small-school standout for the Cowboys when he was drafted in 1964. Since then the Cowboys have compiled an impressive list of small-school talent that includes Hall of Fame OT Rayfield Wright out of Fort Valley State, HoF OG Larry Allen out of Sonoma State, and numerous Pro Bowlers.
Even today, small-school prospects continue to make the roster in Dallas. Brandon Carr (Grand Valley State), Barry Church (Toledo), and Jeff Heath (Saginaw Valley St.