The Washington Redskins, now known as the Washington Commanders, have a storied history in the National Football League (NFL), and the quarterback position has been central to their successes and struggles. Throughout the franchise's history, many talented quarterbacks have donned the burgundy and gold, each leaving their unique mark on the team. From legendary figures to modern-day players, the Redskins' quarterback lineage is filled with compelling stories of triumph, adversity, and everything in between. This article delves into the history of Washington Redskins quarterbacks, examining the key players, memorable moments, and the overall evolution of the position within the franchise. — Los Angeles Weather In April: What To Expect
Early Quarterbacks and the Golden Era
In the early years of the franchise, which began in 1932 as the Boston Braves before relocating to Washington D.C. in 1937, several quarterbacks played crucial roles. One of the most significant figures from this era was Sammy Baugh. Baugh, often considered one of the greatest football players of all time, joined the Redskins in 1937 and quickly became a cornerstone of the team. His exceptional passing ability and leadership helped the Redskins win multiple NFL championships in the 1930s and 1940s. — Donald Trump's Wars: A Foreign Policy Review
Sammy Baugh's contributions extended beyond just throwing the football; he also played defensive back and punter, showcasing his versatility and athletic prowess. His impact on the game and the Redskins franchise is immeasurable, and he remains a revered figure in the team's history. The era of Sammy Baugh marked a golden period for the Redskins, establishing a tradition of excellence at the quarterback position.
Following Baugh's retirement, the Redskins faced the challenge of filling the void left by such a legendary player. Several quarterbacks tried to step into his shoes, but it wasn't until the 1960s and 1970s that the team found more consistent success. Quarterbacks like Sonny Jurgensen brought new excitement to the Redskins' offense. Jurgensen, acquired in 1964, was known for his strong arm and ability to make deep throws, becoming a fan favorite and one of the league's top passers during his tenure with the team. — Bengals Hall Of Fame: Which Drafted Players Made It?
Jurgensen's partnership with head coach Vince Lombardi briefly ignited the team's hopes for a return to championship contention, though Lombardi's untimely passing cut that era short. Despite the team's struggles, Jurgensen's individual brilliance shone brightly, and he remains an important figure in Redskins history. His contributions paved the way for the next generation of quarterbacks who would continue to shape the franchise's legacy.
The Joe Gibbs Era and Super Bowl Glory
The arrival of head coach Joe Gibbs in 1981 marked a turning point for the Washington Redskins. Gibbs' innovative offensive schemes and ability to get the most out of his players led to a period of unprecedented success for the franchise. During his first stint as head coach, Gibbs led the Redskins to three Super Bowl victories, and several quarterbacks played pivotal roles in these championship runs.
Joe Theismann was the starting quarterback for the Redskins during their first Super Bowl-winning season under Gibbs in 1982. Theismann's leadership and efficiency in executing Gibbs' offense made him a key component of the team's success. However, his career was tragically cut short by a gruesome leg injury in 1985, a moment that remains one of the most memorable and unfortunate in NFL history. Theismann's resilience and contributions to the team, both on and off the field, have solidified his place in Redskins lore.
Following Theismann's injury, Doug Williams stepped in as the starting quarterback and led the Redskins to a Super Bowl XXII victory in 1988. Williams' performance in that Super Bowl, where he threw for a then-record four touchdowns in a single quarter, is legendary. He became the first African-American quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl, breaking barriers and inspiring countless individuals. Williams' story is one of perseverance and triumph, and his Super Bowl victory remains a defining moment in Redskins history.
After Williams, Mark Rypien took over as the starting quarterback and led the Redskins to their third Super Bowl title under Gibbs in 1992. Rypien's strong arm and accurate passing made him a perfect fit for Gibbs' offensive system. His Super Bowl XXVI MVP performance cemented his legacy as one of the franchise's top quarterbacks. The success of Theismann, Williams, and Rypien during the Gibbs era underscores the importance of the quarterback position in the Redskins' championship runs.
The Joe Gibbs era was a time of consistent success and memorable moments for the Washington Redskins. The quarterbacks who played under Gibbs benefitted from his coaching and the talented supporting casts around them. This period solidified the franchise's reputation as a perennial contender and created a lasting legacy of excellence. The Super Bowl victories during this era remain cherished memories for Redskins fans and serve as a benchmark for future success.
The Post-Gibbs Era and Quarterback Carousel
Following Joe Gibbs' initial retirement in 1993, the Washington Redskins entered a period of instability at the quarterback position. The team went through a series of quarterbacks, each with varying degrees of success. This era, often referred to as the
