A defensive tackle who played in the NFL for 11 seasons, famously known for his blunders, including "The Fumble" in Super Bowl XXVII and a Thanksgiving Day mistake.
Leon Lett is a name synonymous with excellence in the National Football League (NFL). As a defensive tackle, he played for 11 seasons, primarily with the Dallas Cowboys, and is remembered for his impressive skills on the field, as well as two infamous botched plays that still evoke strong emotions in football fans today.
Born on October 12, 1968, Lett attended Fairhope High School in Fairhope, Alabama, where he lettered in football and basketball. After a brief stint at Auburn University, he played two seasons at Hinds Community College in Raymond, Mississippi, where he compiled an impressive 141 tackles, 10 sacks, nine pass deflections, and three fumble recoveries.
At Emporia State University in Kansas, Lett's talent continued to shine. As a junior in 1989, he helped the team win the Central States Intercollegiate Conference (CSIC) title and reach their first NAIA Football National Championship game. His impressive stats, including leading the team in pass deflections (10) and blocked kicks (2), and finishing second in tackles (83) and sacks (5), earned him honorable mention NAIA All-America, All-NAIA District 10, and All-CSIC honors.
Despite his many achievements, Lett is also remembered for two plays that didn't quite go as planned. In Super Bowl XXVII, he fumbled the ball just short of the goal line, depriving his team of a touchdown. And in a Thanksgiving game, he failed to recover a blocked field goal, which could have sealed the win for his team. Although his team went on to win the Super Bowl in both seasons, these plays have become an enduring part of his legacy.
After retiring from football, Lett began a career in coaching. He served as the assistant defensive line coach for the Cowboys from 2011 to 2022, where he helped develop the next generation of defensive talent.
Leon Lett's legacy is one of perseverance, skill, and sportsmanship. Despite the setbacks, he remained a beloved figure in the football community, and his contributions to the Cowboys' Super Bowl wins are still celebrated today. As a coach, he continued to give back to the game, inspiring young players to strive for excellence.
Leon Lett's story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, determination and hard work can lead to success. His unforgettable plays, both on and off the field, have cemented his place in NFL history.
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