Growing up in Washington, DC, hating the Dallas Cowboys is practically coded into your DNA. Back then, when the Redskins (now Commanders) played, the whole city shifted — crime rates dropped nearly 70% because everyone was glued to the game. That’s how deep football ran in the culture.

And as a kid, I hated Roger Staubach. That was the rivalry.

Even though I’ve lived in Los Angeles longer than I ever lived in DC, that old feeling never fully leaves. Would I buy a Cowboys card or memorabilia today? Nope. Some loyalties — and grudges — stay with you for life.

But age brings perspective. I’m not the die-hard kid I once was, and now I see these players as individuals — fathers, husbands, people with families who live their own lives in the offseason.

So here it is: my Roger Staubach rookie card. Had this since I was a kid and pulled from a wax pack.

As a kid, I couldn’t stand him.

As an adult, I respect the career, the leadership, and the legacy.

Funny how time changes everything… except the fact that I’m still not buying Cowboys gear.