Michael Lynn Downs was born on June 9,1959 and is a former American football safety in the National Football League for the Dallas Cowboys and Phoenix Cardinals.
17 Facts About Michael Downs
1.
2.
Michael Downs accepted a football scholarship from Rice University, where he became a three-year starter at safety.
3.
Michael Downs finished his college career with 9 interceptions.
4.
Michael Downs graduated in 1981 with a BA in Business Management, Political Science and Physical Education.
5.
Michael Downs was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Dallas Cowboys after the 1981 NFL draft.
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Michael Downs wasn't selected because he suffered a pinched nerve in his shoulder as a senior, which affected his play and earned him a reputation for not being aggressive.
7.
Michael Downs was so impressive in training camp, that he became the third rookie in Cowboys history to begin the season as a starter at free safety, after Randy Hughes suffered a dislocated right shoulder and Dextor Clinkscale an Achilles injury in pre-season.
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Michael Downs's performance allowed the team to move Dennis Thurman from free safety to cornerback.
9.
Michael Downs missed the second game with a hamstring injury.
10.
Michael Downs had a stretch of three straight games with an interception and would go on to intercept a total of 7 passes, while contributing to the Cowboys leading the NFL in interceptions and setting a franchise record.
11.
Michael Downs posted 110 tackles, 72 solo tackles, 11 passes defensed and one fumble recovery.
12.
Michael Downs intercepted a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the playoffs.
13.
Michael Downs returned a fumbled kickoff 10 yards for a touchdown in the third game against the New York Giants.
14.
Michael Downs was named a defensive co-captain, posting 116 tackles, 69 solo tackles, 3 interceptions, 3 fumble recoveries and 2 forced fumbles.
15.
Michael Downs was considered one of the best tacklers in the NFL, leading the team secondary for seven consecutive seasons, making over 100 tackles in 5 seasons and leading the team in tackles in 3 seasons.
16.
Michael Downs finished with 34 interceptions and 3 touchdowns.
17.
Michael Downs reunited with Gene Stallings and Dennis Thurman.