Tex Schramm, born on June 2, 1920, in San Gabriel, California, became a central figure in the development of the Dallas Cowboys and the National Football League (NFL). Before his involvement with the Cowboys, Schramm worked as an assistant sports editor for the Austin American-Statesman and later joined the Los Angeles Rams in 1947 as a publicity director. His tenure with the Rams laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in professional football management.

In 1960, Schramm was appointed as the general manager and president of the newly established Dallas Cowboys. Under his leadership, the Cowboys transformed from an expansion team into one of the most successful franchises in NFL history. Schramm's strategic vision and innovative thinking were instrumental in shaping the Cowboys' identity and success on and off the field.

One of Schramm's notable achievements was his role in hiring Tom Landry as the head coach of the Cowboys. Together, they built a team that became known for its disciplined play and innovative strategies. Schramm's ability to identify and recruit talented players was evident in the Cowboys' draft selections, which included future Hall of Famers such as Roger Staubach and Bob Lilly.

Schramm was also a driving force behind the Cowboys' marketing and branding efforts. He understood the importance of creating a strong team identity and was instrumental in designing the team's iconic star logo and silver and blue uniforms. His efforts helped establish the Cowboys as "America's Team," a moniker that reflected their widespread popularity and success.

Beyond his work with the Cowboys, Schramm played a significant role in the broader development of the NFL. He was a key advocate for the merger between the NFL and the American Football League (AFL), which was finalized in 1970. This merger helped solidify the NFL's position as the premier professional football league in the United States.

Schramm was also involved in several innovations that enhanced the game of football. He championed the use of instant replay, which has become an integral part of the sport, allowing officials to review and make more accurate calls during games. Additionally, Schramm was a proponent of the use of computer technology in scouting and player evaluation, which revolutionized the way teams assessed talent.

Under Schramm's leadership, the Cowboys appeared in five Super Bowls, winning two of them in the 1970s. His ability to build a competitive team year after year was a testament to his strategic acumen and understanding of the game. Schramm's influence extended beyond the field, as he was known for his involvement in league meetings and his efforts to improve the overall quality and appeal of professional football.

In 1989, Schramm was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the sport and his role in shaping the modern NFL. His legacy continues to be felt in the league today, as many of the innovations and practices he introduced remain integral to the game.

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