Becki Salvador

Written by Becki Salvador

Published: 03 Oct 2025

25-facts-about-danny-white
Source: Azcentral.com

Who is Danny White? Danny White is a name that resonates with football fans, especially those who followed the NFL in the 1980s. Danny White was a quarterback and punter for the Dallas Cowboys, known for his versatility and leadership on the field. Born on February 9, 1952, in Mesa, Arizona, he played college football at Arizona State University before being drafted by the Cowboys in 1974. White's career with the Cowboys spanned from 1976 to 1988, during which he led the team to three consecutive NFC Championship games. Beyond his playing days, he also made a mark as a coach and commentator. Whether you're a die-hard Cowboys fan or just curious about football history, these 25 facts about Danny White will give you a deeper appreciation of his contributions to the sport.

Table of Contents

Early Life and College Career

Danny White's journey to becoming a football legend began long before his professional career. Here are some fascinating facts about his early life and college days.

  1. Born in Mesa, Arizona: Danny White entered the world on February 9, 1952, in Mesa, Arizona. His roots in the Grand Canyon State would play a significant role in his future.

  2. High School Star: White attended Westwood High School in Mesa, where he excelled in multiple sports, including football, basketball, and baseball.

  3. College Choice: He chose to play college football at Arizona State University, a decision that would set the stage for his future success.

  4. Record-Setting Quarterback: At Arizona State, White set numerous school records, including career passing yards and touchdowns, showcasing his talent early on.

  5. All-American Honors: His outstanding performance earned him All-American honors in 1973, solidifying his reputation as one of the top college quarterbacks in the nation.

Professional Career with the Dallas Cowboys

Danny White's professional career is most closely associated with the Dallas Cowboys, where he left an indelible mark on the franchise.

  1. Drafted by the Cowboys: In 1974, the Dallas Cowboys selected White in the third round of the NFL Draft, a pivotal moment in his career.

  2. Backup to Roger Staubach: White spent the early years of his career as the backup to legendary quarterback Roger Staubach, learning from one of the best in the game.

  3. Starting Quarterback: When Staubach retired in 1980, White took over as the starting quarterback, leading the Cowboys to three consecutive NFC Championship games.

  4. Pro Bowl Selection: In 1982, White earned a Pro Bowl selection, recognizing his exceptional performance during the season.

  5. Versatile Player: White was not only a quarterback but also served as the team's punter, showcasing his versatility on the field.

Notable Achievements and Records

Danny White's career is filled with remarkable achievements and records that highlight his impact on the game.

  1. Franchise Records: White holds several Dallas Cowboys franchise records, including most career touchdown passes in the postseason.

  2. Playoff Success: He led the Cowboys to five playoff appearances during his tenure as the starting quarterback.

  3. Comeback King: White was known for his ability to orchestrate comebacks, with numerous game-winning drives to his name.

  4. Passing Yards Milestone: He surpassed the 20,000 career passing yards mark, a testament to his consistency and skill.

  5. Touchdown Passes: White threw over 150 touchdown passes during his NFL career, solidifying his place among the league's top quarterbacks.

Life After Football

After retiring from professional football, Danny White continued to make significant contributions to the sport and beyond.

  1. Coaching Career: White transitioned to coaching, including a successful stint as the head coach of the Arizona Rattlers in the Arena Football League.

  2. Broadcasting: He also worked as a football analyst and commentator, sharing his insights and expertise with fans.

  3. Hall of Fame Induction: In 1998, White was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his outstanding college career.

  4. Community Involvement: White has been actively involved in various charitable and community organizations, giving back to the community that supported him.

  5. Author: He co-authored a book titled "The Danny White Story: An American Quarterback," providing an in-depth look at his life and career.

Personal Life and Legacy

Danny White's personal life and legacy continue to inspire fans and aspiring athletes alike.

  1. Family Man: White is a devoted husband and father, often emphasizing the importance of family in his life.

  2. Role Model: He is considered a role model for young athletes, known for his work ethic, determination, and sportsmanship.

  3. Influence on Future Generations: White's impact on the game of football extends to future generations, with many young quarterbacks looking up to him as an inspiration.

  4. Honored by the Cowboys: The Dallas Cowboys have honored White's contributions to the franchise, celebrating his achievements and legacy.

  5. Continued Involvement: Even today, White remains involved in football, attending games, mentoring young players, and staying connected to the sport he loves.

Final Thoughts on Danny White

Danny White's career is a fascinating blend of talent, perseverance, and versatility. From his early days at Arizona State to his remarkable tenure with the Dallas Cowboys, White consistently demonstrated his prowess on the field. His transition from quarterback to punter showcased his adaptability, making him a valuable asset to his team. Off the field, his contributions as a coach and commentator further cement his legacy in football. White's journey is a testament to hard work and dedication, inspiring many aspiring athletes. Whether you're a die-hard Cowboys fan or just love football, Danny White's story offers plenty of interesting moments and achievements. His impact on the game continues to be felt, reminding us of the importance of versatility and resilience in sports. So, next time you think of football legends, don't forget to include Danny White in the conversation.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.