 In 1980, he put on 10 pounds during the off-season and won the fullback job from Robert Newhouse, but suffered a twisted ankle in the third game and lost the starter position.In 1981, he was the full-time starter at fullback, combining for 984 yards rushing and receiving, scoring 12 touchdowns (led the team) and tied Tony Hill for the club lead with 46 catches (one short of the franchise record for a running backs).Although his most important role might have been his leadership qualities, that gained him the respect of many people within the Cowboys organization.