Jay Novacek is a former Professional Football Player and was in the NFL for eleven seasons. In high school, Novacek was a three sport star athlete competing in football, basketball, and basketball. His success at the high school level compelled the school to retire his number. Hes inducted into the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame in 1996. After high school Novacek would accept a scholarship to play football at the University of Wyoming. Despite playing in an offense that prioritized the running game, Novacek did what he could and set a NCAA single-season record averaging 22.6 yards per reception with 33 receptions in 1984. Ending his College Career with 83 receptions, 1,536 yards, and 10 touchdowns Novacek would later be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. 

In 1985 Novacek was selected by both the St. Louis Cardinals (NFL) and the Houston Gamblers (USFL). In 1990 he was picked up by the Dallas Cowboys as a free agent and was named the staring tight end making an immediate impact on the team. The following season Novacek went to his first of five Pro Bowls, all of which were in consecutive years. Between 1991 and 1995 Novacek helped the Cowboys make four playoff runs and win three Super Bowls. Novacek announced his retirement in the summer of 1997.