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Dallas Cowboys lost a true franchise cornerstone Saturday morning. Legendary offensive lineman John Niland died peacefully at his McKinney, Texas home. He was 82 years old. His family confirmed the heartbreaking news officially. Niland helped deliver the franchise its first championship. Niland arrived in Dallas back in 1966. He immediately became a dominant force protecting Roger Staubach. He started 111 games across nine solid seasons. The six-time Pro Bowler anchored the offensive line beautifully during Super Bowl VI. John Niland remembered for Super Bowl legacy The legendary blocker faced severe physical consequences during his final years. He battled dementia and mouth cancer bravely. His family plans to donate his brain to Boston University CTE Center, according to reports. He underwent multiple knee and shoulder replacements. Despite his declining health, Niland never lost his competitive spirit. His daughter Haven remembers him as an incredibly wonderful father figure every day. “He was the best dad,” Haven said. “He was so wonderful. I mean, he was really bigger than life. He taught me so many amazing things. I was talking to my sister [Saturday]. He taught me nothing is that serious. The things that really matter are family and your faith and just being kind to other people. I think that’s really exemplified.” Niland played football with immense passion despite the physical toll. He believed he could have played five more years if his body held up. His dedication toward the game remains truly unmatched today. Niland family remembers legendary lineman for team mentality The former Iowa standout always prioritized his team above individual accolades. He instilled this team mentality within his own household daily. His family remembers him organizing Saturday morning garage cleanups constantly. He provided everything they could ever want together. Niland credited legendary coach Tom Landry for shaping his incredible career. Landry demanded extreme discipline and innovative schemes constantly. He called Landry a very strong leader in a 2018 interview. His respect for his coach never wavered. The Dallas franchise mourns the loss of its historic championship cornerstone. Niland secured his legacy by helping win Super Bowl VI. Future generations will remember his incredible toughness and dedication forever. He leaves behind a permanent mark on the organization.