Dallas Cowboys' 'Dirty Dozen' member Scott Laidlaw dies at 72

Laidlaw was part of the celebrated 1975 rookie class that helped define the Cowboys' physical, ball-control identity in the 1970s.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Scott Laidlaw, a former Dallas Cowboys fullback who played from 1975 to 1979 and was part of the team's famed 'Dirty Dozen' rookie class, has died at the age of 72. Laidlaw appeared in two Super Bowls with the Cowboys, including their victory in Super Bowl XII, and was recently honored alongside his 'Dirty Dozen' teammates for their role in shaping the franchise into 'America's Team'.

Why it matters

Laidlaw was a key contributor to the Dallas Cowboys' success in the 1970s, a pivotal era for the franchise that saw them cement their status as one of the NFL's premier teams. His passing marks the loss of an important figure in Cowboys history and highlights the enduring legacy of the 'Dirty Dozen' rookie class that helped define the team's identity.

The details

Laidlaw played five seasons with the Cowboys from 1975 to 1979, lining up at fullback and running back and contributing to the team's physical, ball-control offense. He appeared in two Super Bowls with the Cowboys, including their victory in Super Bowl XII in 1978.

  • Laidlaw played for the Cowboys from 1975 to 1979.
  • Laidlaw was part of the Cowboys' 'Dirty Dozen' rookie class in 1975.
  • Laidlaw appeared in two Super Bowls with the Cowboys, including their victory in Super Bowl XII in 1978.
  • Laidlaw was recently honored alongside his 'Dirty Dozen' teammates during a Cowboys home game in December 2025.

The players

Scott Laidlaw

A former Dallas Cowboys fullback who played from 1975 to 1979 and was part of the team's famed 'Dirty Dozen' rookie class.

Dallas Cowboys

An American professional football team based in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. They are one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world and have won five Super Bowl championships.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Laidlaw's passing marks the loss of a key figure in the Dallas Cowboys' storied history, a player who was part of the celebrated 'Dirty Dozen' rookie class that helped define the team's physical, ball-control identity in the 1970s and contributed to their success, including a Super Bowl victory.