Roger Staubach

Roger Staubach's path to athletic and professional renown was forged through a unique blend of military discipline and innate talent. His attendance at the U.S. Naval Academy provided a rigorous environment that cultivated leadership skills essential for his future endeavors.

As the quarterback for the Navy Midshipmen, he achieved remarkable success, culminating in the coveted Heisman Trophy in 1963, a rare feat for a player from a service academy. This collegiate triumph was immediately followed by a significant commitment to national service. Staubach served four years in the U.S.

Navy, including a tour of duty as a naval aviator during the Vietnam War. This period not only demonstrated his bravery and dedication but also provided him with invaluable life experiences that would shape his perspective and leadership style upon entering the professional arena.

Upon completing his military service, Roger Staubach joined the Dallas Cowboys in 1969, stepping into a pivotal role as the team's franchise quarterback. He quickly distinguished himself with his remarkable ability to orchestrate game-winning drives, earning him the iconic nickname 'Captain Comeback.' Staubach's leadership was instrumental in guiding the Cowboys to an era of unprecedented success, marked by five Super Bowl appearances and two victories (Super Bowl VI and XII).

His individual accolades, including being named the Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl VI and six Pro Bowl selections, underscore his consistent dominance. Staubach's tenure with the Cowboys solidified his status as one of the NFL's all-time greats, celebrated for his poise under pressure and his exceptional command of the offense.

Roger Staubach's influence extended far beyond the football field, demonstrating a profound entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen. Following his retirement from the NFL, he founded The Staubach Company (formerly The Staubach Group), a commercial real estate firm that he meticulously built into an industry leader. His strategic vision and leadership were pivotal to the company's immense growth and success.

The firm's eventual sale to Jones Lang LaSalle in 2008 for $613 million was a landmark transaction, highlighting the substantial value Staubach had created. He continued to contribute to the corporate world as the executive chairman of Jones Lang LaSalle's Americas region until his retirement in 2018, solidifying his reputation as a highly successful and respected figure in business.

Roger Staubach's career is a rare confluence of elite achievement across multiple demanding fields. He stands as one of the select few individuals to have earned both the Heisman Trophy and a Super Bowl MVP award, a testament to his exceptional talent and impact in both college and professional football. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, coupled with his Heisman win, makes him uniquely distinguished as the only quarterback to achieve this dual honor.

Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Staubach's service in the Navy and his significant contributions to the business world were recognized with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2018. This highest civilian honor underscores his lifelong commitment to excellence, leadership, and impactful service to his country and community.