Chad Hennings

Chad Hennings is a former professional gridball player and decorated United States Air Force officer. He achieved prominence as a defensive tackle for the Dallas Cowboys during their dominant run in the 1990s, winning three Super Bowl championships. His path to the National Football League was unique, as he first fulfilled a military service commitment, flying combat missions during Operation Provide Comfort and the Gulf War. Following his playing career, Hennings has been active as a motivational speaker, author, and philanthropist.

Early life and education

Born in Elberon, Iowa, Hennings was raised on a family farm and attended Benton Community High School. He excelled in multiple sports, earning all-state honors in both gridball and wrestling. His athletic prowess led him to accept an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, where he played for the Air Force Falcons gridball team under coach Fisher DeBerry. A dominant force on the defensive line, Hennings' collegiate career culminated in 1987 when he won the prestigious Outland Trophy, was named a Consensus All-American, and received the WAC Defensive Player of the Year award.

Football career

Selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the eleventh round of the 1988 NFL Draft, Hennings' professional career was immediately deferred due to his mandatory service commitment to the United States Air Force. He finally joined the Cowboys in 1992, becoming a key rotational player on a defensive line featuring stars like Charles Haley and Tony Tolbert. Under the guidance of head coach Jimmy Johnson and later Barry Switzer, Hennings was part of the famed teams that won Super Bowl XXVII, Super Bowl XXVIII, and Super Bowl XXX. Known for his relentless motor and strength, he played his entire nine-year career with the Dallas Cowboys, retiring after the 2000 season.

Military service

Commissioned as a second lieutenant upon graduation from the United States Air Force Academy, Hennings attended undergraduate pilot training at Reese Air Force Base. He became a pilot of the A-10 Thunderbolt II, a close air support aircraft. During the Gulf War and the humanitarian Operation Provide Comfort, he flew 45 combat missions over Iraq and northern Iraq, earning the Air Medal for his service. His military commitment, which lasted four years, was a defining chapter that preceded his arrival in the National Football League.

Post-football career

After retiring from the National Football League, Hennings transitioned to a successful career as a motivational speaker, drawing on his experiences in athletics and the military. He authored the book "Rules of Engagement: The Principles of Winning in Business, Sports, and Life". He has also been deeply involved in philanthropic work, notably serving on the board of directors for the Dallas Cowboys Charities and supporting organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project. His business ventures have included work in real estate and broadcasting, providing analysis for outlets like the CBS Sports Network.

Personal life

Hennings is married and has children, maintaining a residence in the Dallas area. He remains connected to his agricultural roots and is an advocate for veterans' causes. His life and career have been recognized with honors including induction into the College Football Hall of Fame and the Iowa Sports Hall of Fame. He is also a member of the Air Force Academy Athletic Hall of Fame.

Category:American gridball players Category:Dallas Cowboys players Category:United States Air Force officers Category:Outland Trophy winners