The 2001 Dallas Cowboys season, their 42nd in the NFL, was a year of significant transition highlighted by the retirement of legendary quarterback Troy Aikman. Under head coach Dave Campo, the team remained competitive in many contests, securing divisional sweeps over the Washington Redskins and New York Giants to finish with a 5-11 record. A major bright spot was future Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith, who continued his historic career by rushing for over 1,000 yards for the 11th consecutive season. A three-time Super Bowl champion and five-time Pro Bowl selection, Darren Woodson retired as the Dallas Cowboys' all-time leading tackler after a standout 12-season career as one of the NFL's most versatile and hardest-hitting safeties.