Walker Returns to Cowboys and the Scene of ‘The Trade’

Herschel Walker, whose 1989 trade from Dallas to Minnesota gave the Cowboys a jump start on building the team that has won three Super Bowls in four seasons, re-signed with Dallas on Thursday.

Walker, 34, was released last month by the New York Giants, for whom he played last season.

“Winning a Super Bowl is No. 1. And as you look around the league and see what teams got an opportunity of winning the Super Bowl, there’s no doubt there’s only a couple, but one at the top of the hill is the Dallas Cowboys,” Walker said.

Contract terms were not disclosed.

In a deal known as “The Trade,” Walker was sent from a Dallas team that finished 1-15 in 1989 to the Vikings for 12 players and draft choices. Those picks, which included running back Emmitt Smith, and subsequent deals provided the Cowboys with a nucleus that has made them the most successful franchise of the ‘90s.

Cowboy Coach Barry Switzer said he expects Walker primarily to back up fullback Daryl Johnston and Smith while also being a vital part of the special teams.