Craig Morton: A Legacy Remembered in the NFL
DENVER — The NFL community is mourning the loss of Craig Morton, a distinguished quarterback who made history over his 18-year career, notably becoming the first player to start in a Super Bowl for two different franchises. Morton passed away at the age of 83, as confirmed by his family on Saturday in Mill Valley, California.
A Unique Super Bowl Journey
Morton’s name will forever resonate in the annals of football history as he is one of only four quarterbacks to start in the NFL’s championship game with two teams. While legends like Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, and Kurt Warner each secured victories in their Super Bowl appearances, Morton’s path was different. His sole Super Bowl ring came as a backup rather than a starter.
His first appearance in the Super Bowl came at the end of the 1970 season, where he led the Dallas Cowboys against the Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl V. The game is often remembered for its numerous turnovers and ended in a narrow 16-13 defeat for Morton and the Cowboys. Nonetheless, he etched his name in history by throwing the franchise’s first touchdown pass in a Super Bowl.
Seven years later, Morton found himself leading the Denver Broncos against his previous team, the Cowboys. Unfortunately, his performance did not meet expectations; he completed only four passes for 39 yards and threw four interceptions before being replaced by Norris Weese in a disappointing 27-10 loss. This marked the beginning of a painful streak for the Broncos, who would face four consecutive Super Bowl losses.
Career Highlights and Accomplishments
Craig Morton’s football journey began at the University of California, where he was a standout player under coach Marv Levy and assistant Bill Walsh. He was selected fifth overall in the 1965 NFL Draft by the Cowboys, who also faced competition for his services from the Oakland Raiders in the AFL draft.
Initially, Morton played behind Don Meredith in Dallas before sharing the quarterback duties with Roger Staubach during the Cowboys’ celebrated 1971 season. Though he contributed significantly, it was Staubach who ultimately secured the starting position and led the Cowboys to their first Super Bowl victory.
The Cowboys traded Morton to the New York Giants in 1974, where his performance faltered. However, his fortune changed when he joined the Broncos before the 1977 season, a move that coincided with a renaissance in Denver football.
Morton’s arrival marked a turning point for the Broncos, who were guided by new head coach Red Miller. The team boasted a formidable defense known as the “Orange Crush,” and Morton’s leadership helped propel them to a remarkable 12-2 record. He also led the team to playoff victories over the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Oakland Raiders, despite battling a hip injury prior to the latter game.
Morton saw a resurgence in his statistics during the 1981 season, where he threw for 3,195 yards and 21 touchdowns, marking career highs. He retired following the 1982 season after a short-lived stint affected by a players’ strike and after starting three games that year.
With a career total of 27,908 passing yards, 183 touchdowns, and 187 interceptions, Morton ranked among the top 20 all-time quarterbacks in several categories upon retirement. His impact on the game was further recognized in 1988 when he was inducted into the Denver Broncos’ Ring of Fame alongside other team greats from the 1977 roster, including Haven Moses and Jim Turner.
The Impact of Morton’s Legacy
Craig Morton’s legacy extends beyond numbers and accolades; he is remembered as a player who faced immense challenges and was instrumental in shaping the careers of future football stars. His journey through the NFL demonstrates resilience, adaptability, and leadership qualities that continue to inspire future generations.
As the NFL community reflects on Morton’s contributions, his unique place in football history as a pioneering figure serves as a vital reminder of the passion and dedication that define the sport.
Source reference: Full report
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