Former Cowboys Quarterback, Assistant Coach Wade Wilson Dies

Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and assistant coach Wade Wilson passed away Friday at his home in Coppell, the team confirms. Wilson was 60 years old.

Wilson served as a backup for Troy Aikman during the 1995-97 seasons, including the Super Bowl XXX championship team in 1995. Prior to that he was an eighth round draft pick (210th overall) for the Vikings in 1981. During his 11 years in Minnesota he led the Vikings to three playoff appearances, including the 1987 NFC Championship Game.

In his 19-year career, Wilson also spent time with the Falcons (1992), Saints (1993-94) and Raiders (1998-99).

Following his playing career, Wilson served as an assistant coach with the Cowboys and Chicago Bears.

On Friday night, Dallas Cowboys Owner and General manager Jerry Jones released a statement saying... "Wade was a cherished and valued member of our organization as a player, a coach and a wonderful friend. His contributions began as a member of a Super Bowl winning team and carried on through to helping guide the development and growth of both Tony Romo and Dak Prescott. This is a sad day for all members of the Cowboys family as we have lost a truly great man. Our thoughts are with his family, loved ones and all of the lives that he touched with his warm demeanor and his caring persona. Wade Wilson will be missed greatly—and never forgotten."

Wilson completed his career with a 75.6 quarterback rating on 1,391-of-2,428 passing for 17,283 yards. His best statistical year was 1988 when he led the NFC with a 91.5 quarterback rating and completed 204-of-332 passes (61.4%) for 2,746 yards, 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions. During his three years in Dallas, Wilson threw for 585 yards, one touchdown and four interceptions on 58-of-96 passing for a 63.9 rating. He earned one start (at Washington, 12/22/96) in his three-year stay in Dallas. Born in Commerce, Texas, Wilson graduated from Commerce High School and lettered four years at East Texas State University, where he earned NAIA All-America and Lone Star Conference MVP honors as a senior while leading the conference in passing and total offense.

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