Former Cowboys offensive lineman John Niland dies at 79

John Niland, a former offensive lineman for the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles, passed away on August 15, 2026, in McKinney, Texas. He was 79. Drafted fifth overall by the Cowboys in 1966, Niland made six Pro Bowls during his 10-year career, playing a key role in the Cowboys' Super Bowl VI victory in 1972. His family announced his death on social media, stating his brain will be donated to the Boston University CTE Center for study. Niland was also recognized as an inductee in the Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame in 2006.

• 4:28 PMYahoo Sports — Former Cowboys Pro Bowler, Super Bowl champion dies