Former Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Chad Hennings recently gathered 100 military personnel at The Star, the team's indoor practice facility in Frisco. The event marked the fourth year of the USAA Salute to Service NFL Boot Camp, which invites service members from Texas and other states to participate in athletic drills.
Hennings, who is also a decorated Air Force pilot, oversaw the session. The participants completed a series of tests similar to those used in the NFL Scouting Combine, including the 40-yard dash, broad jump, three-cone shuttle, receiving gauntlet, and quarterback arm challenge. The activity lasted approximately 60 minutes, with Hennings moving across the field to offer technical advice to the troops.
The former player shared his own history of balancing military obligations with professional sports. After being drafted by the Cowboys in the 11th round of the 1988 NFL draft, Hennings was required to fulfill his service commitment as an Air Force pilot. He flew more than 50 combat missions during his career.
In 1992, following a reduction in force, he returned to Dallas for a tryout after a four-and-a-half-year layoff. His performance led to a contract with the team, and he played in the Super Bowl that same year.
"I flew my last mission in northern Iraq in '92, and I played in the Super Bowl the same year," Hennings told the group. He noted that his experience demonstrates that military service and professional athletics can coexist.
