Card: Topps 1990
Acquired: In Person 1990, Dallas Cowboys Training Camp

The Cowboys made some shrewd moves during their first draft with Jimmy Johnson, drafting fullback Daryl Johnston out of Syracuse at the top of the second round in 1989. A sound and accomplished blocker and a tough inside runner with nice hands, Johnston is one of the most unsung members of the Dallas Cowboys’ dynasties of the 1990’s.

His rookie season would be impressive for a fullback. Johnston made 16 receptions including 3 touchdowns, while running for 212 yards (which would turn out to be a career high). Johnston got some due, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 1993, while making a career high 50 receptions for 372 yards, and 1994 when he made 44 receptions for 325 yards. Frequently utilized as a short yardage back, Johnston was frighteningly effective, whether it was as a receiver or rusher in the Cowboys offense.

Affectionately nicknamed “Moose” by teammate Babe Laufenberg, anytime he touched the ball you could hear fans cheer his nickname. Daryl played for the Cowboys through 1999, but as neck injuries and concussions took their toll on the selfless fullback, he’d be forced to retire.

Johnston jumped right into the broadcasting booth working both College and Pro games. Daryl has a workmanlike efficiency to his broadcasting and unlike other commentators doesn’t grate on the nerves.  

A humanitarian, Johnston has been quite active in charities- but at this time may never be considered for the statistically driven Pro Football HoF, and has yet to be inducted into the Cowboys Ring of Honor. Johnston is credited as being the ‘first’ fullback to be named to the Pro Bowl, as before 1993 the position didn’t exist as an electable category.

G/Gs  151/122   Rush 232     Yds 753   Avg  3.2     Td 8    Lg  18  |
Rec 294  Yds 2227   Avg 7.6     Td 14    Lg  28