Dallas Cowboys Hero and iconic civil rights activist Pettis Norman dies on 86

Former Dallas Cowboys Star Pettis Norman died at the age of 86.

The NFL franchise confirmed the news with a statement on Monday, with the text: ‘We mourn for the death of former tight end and lawyer of civil rights Pettis Norman.

“Known for his selfless leadership, dedication to community and dedication to creating equal opportunities, we were incredibly proud and grateful to recently share his remarkable story.”

Norman was selected by the Dallas Texans in the 2962 Offspring However, Draft never played before the side. He eventually joined the cowboys as a free agent.

The former tight end spent nine seasons with the franchise and – over 121 games – registered 124 catches, 14 touchdowns and more than 1,600 receiving yards.

Away from the football field, Norman was also an entrepreneur and a civil rights activist. He influenced the change of the team’s roommate assignments and helped to break social barriers.

Former Dallas Cowboys star and civil rights activist Pettis Norman died at the age of 86 –

The cowboys have issued a statement that the ‘dedication to community’ by Norman Eerde

He also founded the Dallas Together Forum, which worked together with Dallas CEOs to improve the recruitment of minorities.

He also once sued the Dallas Cowboys and San Diego Chargers for ‘medical negligence’ with regard to the handling of an injured knee.

A family statement was: ‘[Norman] Died peacefully in his sleep … surrounded by his loving wife, daughters, grandson and great -grandchildren.

‘A strong advocate for civil rights and dedicated to creating opportunities for everyone, Mr Norman was a respected manager and social leader, widely known for his performance both on and outside the field.

“He leaves a legacy of selfless leadership, advocacy on behalf of disadvantaged people and a deep dedication to his community.”