Drew Pearson, a Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinee, is being highlighted as part of the countdown to the Dallas Cowboys‘ 2025 season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. The feature marks day 14 in a series exploring key figures in Cowboys history.
Pearson, born on Jan. 12, 1951, in South River, New Jersey, played wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys from 1973 to 1983. He was known for his pivotal performances in critical moments during games. Signed as an undrafted free agent out of Tulsa University, Pearson became one of quarterback Roger Staubach’s preferred targets. His contributions were instrumental in helping Dallas win Super Bowl XII. He also earned three Pro Bowl selections and was recognized as an All-Pro in 1974, 1976, and 1977.
Throughout his career with Dallas, Pearson developed a reputation for making game-changing plays. One of the most notable moments came during the 1975 playoffs when he caught what would become known as the “Hail Mary” pass against the Minnesota Vikings. That reception remains one of the most recognized plays in National Football League history and is displayed at The Star in Frisco.
Pearson’s legacy continued after his playing career ended when he was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021.
Outside his on-field achievements, Pearson became well-known among fans for his charismatic “hut-hut” call and for memorable moments like addressing Philadelphia Eagles fans during the 2017 National Football League Draft.
A less widely known aspect of Pearson’s early years is that he attended Tulsa University initially as a quarterback before moving to wide receiver after serving as backup quarterback for a year. This switch paved the way for what would become a celebrated football career and ultimately led to his recognition by the Hall.
