We’re counting down to the season opener (Day 60) with some Cowboys history
We’re counting down the days until the Dallas Cowboys battle the Philadelphia Eagles in the season opener of the 2025 NFL season. To pass the time and mark the days, we running through 100 Days of Cowboys. So sit back and enjoy some Cowboys history while we countdown to football.
Today – number 60.
Mark Stepnoski
Born: January 20, 1967. Erie, Pennsylvania
Position: Center
Dallas Cowboys: 1989-1994
Awards: Super Bowl champion- XXVII, XXVIII
All-Pro- 1992, 1994, 1996
Pro Bowl– 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996
NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images
Mark Stepnoski played center for the Dallas Cowboys from 1989 to 1994 and again from 1999 to 2001, after being drafted in the third round out of the University of Pittsburgh. Undersized by NFL standards, Stepnoski made up for it with exceptional technique, quickness, and intelligence. He was a crucial part of the dominant Cowboys offensive line that powered the team’s early 1990s dynasty, helping protect Troy Aikman and open holes for Emmitt Smith. Stepnoski earned five consecutive Pro Bowl selections and won two Super Bowls with Dallas.
Photo by James Smith/Getty Images
Best known for:
Stepnoski was best known for being the cerebral anchor of the Cowboys’ offensive line during their Super Bowl runs in the early ’90s, using his smarts and technique even though he was severely undersized.
Lesser known fact:
After retiring, Stepnoski became an outspoken advocate for marijuana legalization, even serving as president of the Texas chapter of NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws). A surprising turn for a former NFL star known for his quiet, workmanlike demeanor during his playing days.
