Craig Morton, a former National Football League (NFL) quarterback who played 18 seasons and started the Super Bowl for two different franchises, died on Saturday in Mill Valley, California, at the age of 83. The Denver Broncos confirmed his death through his family.
Career Overview
Morton was one of only four quarterbacks in NFL history to start the Super Bowl for two different teams. He started Super Bowl V for the Dallas Cowboys (a 16-13 loss to the Baltimore Colts) and Super Bowl XII for the Denver Broncos (a 27-10 loss to the Cowboys). His only Super Bowl ring came as a backup with the Dallas Cowboys after the 1971 season (Super Bowl VI).
Professional Career Timeline
- 1965: Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round (5th overall) of the NFL draft and by the Oakland Raiders in the 10th round of the American Football League (AFL) draft.
- College: Played at the University of California under coaches Marv Levy and Bill Walsh, earning Hall of Fame honors.
- Early NFL Career: Split quarterback duties with Don Meredith and later Roger Staubach in Dallas.
- 1974: Traded to the New York Giants.
- 1977: Traded to the Denver Broncos.
- 1977 Season: Led the Broncos to a 12-2 record and the franchise's first Super Bowl appearance.
- Retirement: Retired after the 1982 season.
Career Statistics
Morton's career passing totals were 27,908 yards, 183 touchdowns, and 187 interceptions.
Post-Retirement Recognition
Morton was inducted into the Denver Broncos' Ring of Fame in 1988.