Joe Theismann

The Fiery Leader Who Defined Washington’s Championship Era

Few quarterbacks in NFL history have embodied grit, leadership, and playmaking ability like Joe Theismann. A Super Bowl champion, NFL MVP, and one of the most dynamic quarterbacks of the late 1970s and early 1980s, Theismann was the heart and soul of the Washington franchise, leading them to their first Super Bowl victory and helping establish one of the greatest offensive teams of the era.

Known for his competitive fire, quick release, and ability to extend plays, Theismann was a natural playmaker, able to command an offense, make crucial throws in clutch moments, and use his mobility to escape defenders. Though his career ended with one of the most infamous injuries in NFL history, his legacy as a franchise quarterback and Super Bowl champion remains legendary.

This collection honors Joe Theismann, the charismatic and fearless quarterback who led Washington to its first Super Bowl title, won league MVP honors, and became one of the most iconic signal-callers of his generation.

Joe Theismann’s Legendary Career by the Numbers

Theismann’s career was defined by winning, as he led Washington through one of its greatest stretches in franchise history.

Career Statistics & Achievements (1974–1985)

Pro Football Hall of Fame Nominee
Super Bowl XVII Champion
NFL MVP (1983)
NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1983)
Two-time Pro Bowler (1982, 1983)
Washington Commanders (formerly Redskins) Ring of Fame
Career Passing Yards: 25,206
Career Passing Touchdowns: 160
Career Completions: 2,044
Career Wins as a Starter: 77
Most Passing Yards in Washington Franchise History (At Retirement)
Most Passing Touchdowns in Washington Franchise History (At Retirement)
Held Washington’s Career Passing Records for Over 25 Years

Theismann wasn’t just a great passer—he was a clutch leader, guiding his team to multiple playoff appearances, division titles, and a Super Bowl championship.

The College Years – A Star at Notre Dame

Before becoming a Washington legend, Theismann was already making a name for himself as a star quarterback at Notre Dame.

Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, in 1949, Theismann was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in football, baseball, and basketball.
He attended Notre Dame, where he became one of the most exciting quarterbacks in college football.
As the starting quarterback (1969-1970), he led Notre Dame to a 20-3-2 record, cementing himself as one of the best passers in school history.
In his senior season (1970), he passed for 2,429 yards and 16 touchdowns, finishing second in Heisman Trophy voting.
His college career set multiple school records, proving that he was ready for the next level.

Despite his success, Theismann’s path to the NFL was far from traditional, as he initially chose to play in the Canadian Football League (CFL).

The CFL Years – An Unconventional Path to the NFL

After being drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the fourth round of the 1971 NFL Draft, Theismann chose to play in the CFL instead, signing with the Toronto Argonauts.

In three seasons with Toronto (1971–1973), Theismann threw for 6,093 yards and 40 touchdowns, proving he could excel at the professional level.
He was named a CFL All-Star in 1971, leading the Argonauts to a Grey Cup appearance.
In 1974, Washington acquired Theismann’s rights and signed him, officially bringing him to the NFL.

Though his journey to the NFL was unusual, Theismann was ready to prove himself as a franchise quarterback.

The Early Washington Years – Learning and Waiting

Theismann’s transition to the NFL wasn’t immediate.

When he arrived in Washington in 1974, he spent his first two seasons as a backup and punt returner, waiting for his chance to start.
By 1976, he was promoted to backup quarterback, learning under veteran Billy Kilmer.
In 1978, he finally earned the starting job, proving that he was ready to lead Washington’s offense.

Though it took several years, Theismann’s patience, work ethic, and leadership helped him grow into one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL.

Becoming a Franchise Quarterback (1978–1981)

By the late 1970s, Theismann had established himself as Washington’s full-time starter, and his dynamic playmaking ability helped turn the team into a contender.

In 1980, he threw for 3,200 yards and 20 touchdowns, proving he could be an elite passer.
His ability to scramble and extend plays made him one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the league.
In 1981, Washington hired Joe Gibbs as head coach, and Theismann thrived under Gibbs’ offensive system.

With Gibbs and Theismann leading the way, Washington was on the verge of something special.

The Super Bowl Run – Washington’s First Championship

The 1982 season was Theismann’s defining moment, as he led Washington to its first Super Bowl title.

Super Bowl XVII Championship Season (1982)

Theismann led Washington to an 8-1 regular season record, as the NFL played a strike-shortened season.
In the playoffs, he was spectacular, leading Washington to victories over Detroit, Minnesota, and Dallas.
In Super Bowl XVII, Theismann threw for 143 yards and made several key plays, leading Washington to a 27-17 victory over the Miami Dolphins.
He became the first quarterback to ever lead Washington to a Super Bowl title.

The victory cemented Theismann’s legacy, as he was now a Super Bowl-winning quarterback and one of the best in the NFL.

The 1983 MVP Season – The Best Year of His Career

Following the Super Bowl victory, Theismann had the greatest statistical season of his career.

Passing Yards: 3,714
Passing Touchdowns: 29
Completion %: 60.1%
Passer Rating: 97.0
Led Washington to a 14-2 record and the NFC’s No. 1 seed

For his dominance, Theismann was named NFL MVP and Offensive Player of the Year, proving he was the best quarterback in the league.

The Final Years & The Infamous Injury

Theismann continued to play at a high level into 1984 and 1985, but his career came to a devastating end.

The Career-Ending Injury (November 18, 1985)

During a Monday Night Football game against the New York Giants, Theismann suffered one of the most gruesome injuries in NFL history.
He was sacked by Lawrence Taylor, and his right leg was shattered in multiple places.
The injury was so severe that it immediately ended his career.

Though his career was cut short, Theismann’s impact on the game remained legendary.

Defining Moments of Theismann’s Career

1971 – Joins the CFL Instead of the NFL: Begins his pro football journey in Canada.
1974 – Signs with Washington: Officially arrives in the NFL.
1978 – Becomes Washington’s Starting Quarterback: Begins his run as a franchise QB.
1982 – Wins Super Bowl XVII: Leads Washington to its first championship.
1983 – Wins NFL MVP: Becomes the best quarterback in football.
1985 – Career-Ending Injury: Suffers one of the most famous injuries in NFL history.
2003 – Inducted into Washington’s Ring of Fame: Recognized as one of the greatest players in franchise history.

A Legacy That Defined a Championship Era

Joe Theismann wasn’t just a great quarterback—he was a leader, a champion, and one of the most iconic players in Washington history.

He led Washington to its first Super Bowl victory, proving he was one of the best quarterbacks of his generation.
His competitive fire, leadership, and playmaking ability helped define Washington’s greatest era.
Though his career was tragically cut short, his impact on the game and the quarterback position remains legendary.

A Super Bowl Champion, An MVP, and One of the Most Respected Quarterbacks in NFL History.