Are the Dallas Cowboys Still ‘America’s Team’? Fans Debate

If you live in Texas, it's safe to say that at some point, you have heard someone refer to the Dallas Cowboys as "America's Team."

This designation is so pervasive that even individuals who are not fans of professional football are aware of it.

Get our free mobile app

Coining the Term "America's Team"

The term “America’s Team” emerged somewhat organically in 1978, when NFL Films producer Bob Ryan, preparing the team’s season highlight video, observed that Cowboys jerseys seemed to appear in stadiums everywhere.

He opened the film with the line, “They are the Dallas Cowboys… America’s Team.”

Broadcasters picked up the nickname the following season, cementing it in popular football lore.

The Great Debate: Are The Dallas Cowboys Still America's Team?

The reality of carrying such a famous nickname comes with plenty of controversy.

Following the dynasty years of the 1990s, when Dallas captured three Super Bowls in four years, the team’s on-field dominance has faded in terms of Super Bowl appearances.

While they remain a major brand, critics argue the nickname rings hollow without recent championships or deep playoff runs.

The Dallas Cowboys are the most valuable franchise in American sports, with a global brand that spans far beyond the gridiron.

While the team has struggled to reach the Super Bowl since their 1990s dynasty, their popularity is massive.  Certainly worthy of the moniker, right?

Read More: Dallas Cowboy Red Stripe: Good Luck? Or Bad Luck?

This brings up the question: are the Cowboys truly “America’s Team”?

For many fans, the nickname remains appropriate, not due to recent performance, but because of the team's widespread appeal, cultural impact, and national recognition.

For others, the title may belong to a more current powerhouse that better reflects today’s NFL.

In short, the Dallas Cowboys may not be America’s reigning champion, but to many, they arguably remain America’s team in the sense of being America’s biggest football brand.