Former Cowboys Star Reveals How Signed Jersey Fueled His Recovery

Dallas, TX – July 19, 2025

A former Dallas Cowboys star has opened up about a remarkable turnaround, revealing how a signed team jersey became his lifeline out of addiction and despair, sources told ESPN. Thomas “Hollywood” Henderson, once a celebrated linebacker, remains a fervent supporter of Cowboys Nation, turning his past struggles into a beacon of hope.

Henderson shared his story on the Cowboys Radio Network Friday: “In the early ‘80s, I hit rock bottom with addiction. I lost everything, but I clung to my Cowboys jersey signed by the team—it was my last shred of hope. I sold it for $25,000 to start over. Dallas didn’t just give me a career; it gave me a second chance at life.” Drafted 18th overall in 1975, Henderson racked up 53 tackles and 3 interceptions in 1977, per Pro-Football-Reference, and played a key role in the team’s Super Bowl XII run.

His battle with crack cocaine led to legal troubles, including a 1983 arrest for exchanging drugs for sex with minors, derailing his NFL career after stints with San Francisco 49ers and Houston Oilers. Hospitalized during his darkest days, Henderson credits the emotional tie to his signed jersey—inked by legends like Roger Staubach—as a catalyst for recovery. The sale funded his rehab, sparking a journey to sobriety that has lasted over 40 years.

Now 72, Henderson thrives as a motivational speaker across Texas, inspiring at-risk youth with his tale of redemption. His work mirrors the Cowboys’ community ethos, per local reports. “That jersey reminded me of where I came from and what I could be,” he told The Dallas Morning News. His story gained traction after winning the Texas Lottery twice, including a $28 million jackpot, a twist that cemented his resilience.

Cowboys fans on social media are in awe, with posts found on X hailing, “Hollywood’s comeback is Cowboys pride!” The team, coming off a 12-5 season in 2024 and eyeing Super Bowl LX, embraces his legacy. With $42 million in cap space, per NFL.com, the front office could honor his journey with a community event as training camp nears on July 20 in Oxnard.

Henderson’s tale of using a Cowboys jersey to rebuild his life resonates deeply, fueling hope for a squad led by Dak Prescott. Can his spirit inspire a championship run? As camp approaches, his story adds a powerful narrative to Dallas’ 2025 aspirations. Stay tuned to ESPN for updates.