Cowboys offseason countdown: 99 facts until the regular season (Day 72)

We count down the days to kickoff giving you an interesting fact about each number. Today is number 72.

We are at day 72 of our 99 day countdown until the regular season. Here is your daily fact associated with number 72.

In last year’s countdown, the renowned Too Tall Jones was the iconic number 72 that was dedicated on this day. This year, our focus shifts to the exceptional center, Travis Frederick.

Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images

Travis Frederick dedicated his entire seven-year professional career to playing at center for the Dallas Cowboys. His journey began when he was chosen as the 31st overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. Initially projected to be selected in the second or third round, Dallas recognized his potential and decided to pick him in the first round. This move surprised many, but it proved to be a wise decision as Frederick became a key player in the team’s offensive line rebuilding process.

Frederick took over for Phil Costa, the former starter for two years. He made history as the first rookie in the franchise to start every game at center and was named to the NFL All-Rookie team. In 2016, Frederick signed an extension with Dallas after he earned two Pro Bowl selections for his exceptional talent.

And Travis Fredrick just signed a 6 yr deal?! It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas #CowboysNation

— J Tuck (@jtuck151) August 14, 2016

In 2016, Frederick played a key role in guiding rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott to become the NFL rushing yards leader. Additionally, he provided protection for rookie quarterback Dak Prescott, who made his first Pro Bowl. Frederick’s exceptional performance led to his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection and being named First-Team All-Pro, alongside fellow Cowboy offensive linemen Tyron Smith and Zack Martin

In 2018, Frederick was placed on injured reserve at the beginning of the season due to a diagnosis of Guillain–Barré syndrome after sustaining a stinger. He sat out the first four games before ultimately being moved to the reserve/non-football illness list.

Watch Zack Martin and Travis Fredrick on these pulls. Both have improved significantly in this area. pic.twitter.com/REsnjBV3hP

— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) December 28, 2017

In 2019, Frederick made his fifth Pro Bowl appearance and was honored with the George Halas Award by the Pro Football Writers of America for overcoming adversity. However, in March 2020, Frederick announced his retirement from football.

Dallas Cowboys center Travis Fredrick announces retirement from NFL

✅ 31st Overall pick in 2013
✅ 5x Pro Bowler
✅ 3x All-Pro Center
✅ All-Time Cowboy

Thank you, Travis. https://t.co/1MTZzOaIpq

— Dallas Cowboys Fanatic (@CowboysNews365) March 23, 2020

Frederick’s legacy will forever be defined by his exceptional intellect, authoritative presence, and remarkable leadership skills on the offensive line. Not only was he an outstanding blocker with unwavering attention to detail, but his partnership with Smith and Martin created an unstoppable force that garnered attention from the national media. Frederick’s five Pro Bowl appearances, three All-Pro selections, and consistent recognition in the NFL Top-100 were undeniable proof of his immense talent. Moreover, he was adored by fans and struck fear into the hearts of every opponent he encountered, they feared-the-beard.

Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images

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Cowboys Training Camp, Oxnard, 25th July (27 days to go).