Joe Theismann

Joe Theismann is a former professional gridball quarterback who achieved his greatest success with the Washington Redskins of the National Football League (NFL). He led the franchise to victory in Super Bowl XVII, earning Super Bowl MVP honors, and was named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1983. His career was abruptly ended by a catastrophic leg injury during a nationally televised game in 1985, an event that remains one of the most infamous in NFL history.

Early life and college career

Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Theismann was a multi-sport standout at South River High School. He accepted a scholarship to play college football for the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish, where he became the team's starting quarterback. Under coach Ara Parseghian, Theismann led the 1970 Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team to a #2 national ranking, finishing as the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy to Jim Plunkett of Stanford University. His prolific passing at Notre Dame Stadium set numerous school records and cemented his reputation as a dynamic and charismatic leader.

Professional football career

Drafted in the fourth round by the Miami Dolphins in 1971, Theismann began his professional career with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League (CFL). He joined the Washington Redskins in 1974, initially serving as a punt returner and backup to Billy Kilmer. After winning the starting job, he became the centerpiece of coach Joe Gibbs's offensive system, known for its precision passing game and reliance on the "Hogs" offensive line. Theismann's peak seasons culminated in a win over the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII at the Rose Bowl and an appearance in Super Bowl XVIII the following year. His career ended on November 18, 1985, when New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor sacked him, resulting in a compound fracture of his right leg during a broadcast of Monday Night Football.

Post-football career

Following his retirement, Theismann transitioned seamlessly into a career in sports broadcasting. He served as a color analyst for ESPN's Sunday Night Football telecasts for nearly two decades, working alongside personalities like Mike Patrick and Paul Maguire. He has also been a fixture on the NFL Network, hosted radio shows, and appeared as a contestant on *Dancing with the Stars*. Beyond media, Theismann has been involved in numerous business ventures, including restaurant ownership in the Washington, D.C. area, and remains an active participant in charitable and alumni events for the University of Notre Dame.

Personal life

Theismann has been married twice and has children. He maintains a high profile in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area through his business and philanthropic activities. A notable chapter in his personal life was his highly publicized relationship with actress Cathy Lee Crosby during the peak of his football career. He is also known for his long-standing friendship with former Redskins teammate and fellow broadcaster John Riggins.

Legacy and honors

Joe Theismann is remembered as one of the iconic players of the early 1980s NFL and a central figure in the Washington Commanders franchise history. His jersey number 7 is retired by the team, and he is a member of the Washington Commanders Ring of Fame. Theismann's 1983 NFL Most Valuable Player award and his Super Bowl MVP performance are the crowning achievements of his playing days. Although his career was cut short, his name remains synonymous with the Super Bowl XVII champion Redskins, and his injury remains a pivotal moment in the league's emphasis on player safety and rules protecting the quarterback.

Category:American football quarterbacks Category:Washington Commanders players Category:Notre Dame Fighting Irish football players