Tex Schramm Biography

Texas Earnest Schramm Jr., born June 2, 1920, was an American football executive who served as the Dallas Cowboys' original president and general manager. Schramm, known as Tex, led the Cowboys from their inception in 1960 as an expansion franchise. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Texas in 1947 after attending Alhambra High School. Schramm maintained a close friendship with NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle, who held office for 29 years, mirroring Schramm's tenure with the Cowboys. In 1959, Schramm expressed interest in leading the new NFL team in Dallas when expansion plans became clear. In 1960, he appointed Tom Landry as head coach and Gil Brandt as chief scout for the Cowboys. Also in 1966, Schramm agreed to the NFL's request to schedule the Cowboys' games on Thanksgiving, a tradition the team has continued since.