William Frederick Bates (born June 6, 1961) is an American former professional football player who spent his entire 15-year career as a safety for the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League (NFL).

Jan 7, 2025 · On Sunday, Bates was honored as the Cowboys' Legend of the Game. Widely regarded as one of the great special teams players in NFL history, Bates instantly became a fan favorite for...

Bill Bates has the kind of origin story NFL fans love. He was a long shot to make it as a professional football player as an undrafted free agent in 1983. The Dallas Cowboys took a chance and signed Bates after a successful college career at Tennessee.

Jan 6, 2025 · The Dallas Cowboys are set to honor former player Bill Bates during a special event at AT&T Stadium on Sunday, dubbed 'Bill Bates Day.' Bates, who is currently suffering from post-concussion syndrome, will be recognized for his contributions to the team.

May 9, 2021 · Eleven-year veteran Bill Bates, however, was found curled up at his locker in the bowels of the Georgia Dome, sobbing tears of unbridled joy.

Checkout the latest stats for Bill Bates. Get info about his position, age, height, weight, college, draft, and more on Pro-football-reference.com. Sports Reference ®

Jan 4, 2025 · FRISCO - Bill Bates is one of the unlikeliest of Dallas Cowboys legends, a too-small, too-slow undrafted free agent in 1983 who 15 years later had forged for himself the longest stint in...

Jun 19, 2013 · Wearing "a star on my helmet and No. 40 on my chest" for 217 regular-season games, second all-time in team history, and two Super Bowls, Bates was as versatile as duct tape. While making a name for himself because of special teams, he also saw duty at strong safety, where he was the starter for three seasons (1986-88), cornerback and linebacker.

Dec 15, 2015 · Known for tackling and slobberknocker hits, Bill Bates is a gridiron legend. He started and finished his football career wearing a star on his helmet.

Jan 7, 2025 · WFAA catches up with Dallas Cowboys fan favorite and special teams great Bill Bates during a recent homecoming visit to AT&T Stadium.