John Niland, the former Dallas Cowboys offensive guard and three-time first-team All-Pro, has died at the age of 82. Niland was remembered as one of the most accomplished linemen of his era, earning six consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1968 through 1973. During his decorated NFL career, Niland was named a first-team All-Pro in 1969, 1971 and 1972. His consistency and strength on the offensive line made him an important part of the Cowboys’ success during one of the most prominent periods in franchise history.
Niland also played a key role in helping Dallas capture a Super Bowl championship. He protected quarterback Roger Staubach as the Cowboys defeated the Miami Dolphins 24-3 in Super Bowl VI on Jan. 16, 1972. The victory marked one of the defining achievements of Niland’s professional career and helped establish the Cowboys as a dominant team of the era. A Massachusetts native, Niland developed his football career at the University of Iowa, where he became a standout player. The Cowboys selected him with the fifth overall pick in the 1966 NFL Draft, beginning a successful tenure in Dallas.
His contributions to Iowa football were later recognized when he was inducted into the Hawkeyes’ Athletics Hall of Fame in 2006. His legacy extended beyond his individual honors, as he remained part of a championship-winning Cowboys team remembered by generations of fans. Niland is survived by his wife, Shaughn, whom he was married to for more than 30 years, and their daughters, Jordan and Haven. His career remains an important part of both Cowboys and Iowa football history.
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