But in order to play the role of Rowdy, Aaberg had to follow 10 rules to be the official Cowboys mascot.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, former Dallas Cowboys mascot Eric Aaberg shared a behind-the-mask look at what it takes to suit up as the team's boots-wearing, chaps-sporting mascot, Rowdy.

Two stories Tuesday put perhaps the four most polarizing Cowboys ... maligned Rowdy and perhaps make him a bit more relatable to fans by sharing a few off-color tales from the mascot's past.