Cowboys Rookie Jaydon Blue Mourns Grandfather of Close Friend - Cowboys Legend

Frisco, TX – September 18, 2025

As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for their Week 3 matchup against the Chicago Bears, a heartfelt story has emerged from the team’s locker room. Rookie running back Jaydon Blue, one of the Cowboys’ promising young talents, is grappling with deep sorrow following the passing of D.D. Lewis, the grandfather of his close friend and a legendary figure in Cowboys history.

D.D. Lewis, a former linebacker who left an indelible mark on the franchise, passed away on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the age of 79 in Plano, Texas. A cornerstone of the Cowboys’ iconic “Doomsday Defense,” Lewis played in five Super Bowls, won two championships, and holds the team record for 27 playoff appearances. He is perhaps best remembered for his iconic quote: “Texas Stadium has a hole in its roof so God can watch his favorite team play.”

For Blue, Lewis’ passing is not just the loss of a Cowboys icon but a deeply personal moment. Growing up in Houston, Texas, Blue formed a tight bond with Lewis’ grandson, Jackson, whom he considers a brother. The two shared countless memories, including stories of D.D.’s glory days with the Cowboys. “He was not only a Cowboys legend, but also a personal inspiration to me,” Blue told reporters at The Star. “When I was a kid, every time I went to my friend’s house, I would always hear his stories about the Cowboys. He was the one who planted the dream in me of one day wearing this jersey.”

Blue, a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has yet to see game action this season, listed as inactive for the Cowboys’ first two games. However, his speed and versatility shone during training camp in Oxnard, earning praise from coaches and teammates. This week, though, Blue’s focus is on honoring the legacy of the man who inspired his NFL journey.

“Mr. Lewis taught Jackson and me about grit, teamwork, and what it means to be a Cowboy,” Blue said, his voice heavy with emotion. “I want to step on that field and give everything I’ve got—not just for the team, but for him, for Jackson, and for everything this star represents.”

Head coach Mike McCarthy expressed empathy for the young rookie. “Jaydon’s a passionate kid, and this loss hits close to home for him,” McCarthy said. “D.D. Lewis is a huge part of our history, and we know Jaydon will carry that legacy with him when he gets his chance to play.”

As the Cowboys prepare to face the Bears at Soldier Field, Blue is determined to pay tribute to D.D. Lewis through his effort and dedication. “Jackson told me his grandfather was always proud of the Cowboys, past and present,” Blue said. “I hope I can make him proud from up above.”

Blue’s story serves as a reminder that the Dallas Cowboys are more than a football team—they are a family woven together across generations. For the young rookie, his journey is not just about carving out a role in the NFL but also about honoring the legacy of a legend like D.D. Lewis, whose influence continues to shape the heart of America’s Team.