Joe Theismann: An NFL Career Evaluated Beyond Pro Bowl Appearances

Joe Theismann, while widely known for his career with the Washington Redskins and his role in one of the most memorable NFL plays, has often been discussed in terms that do not entirely align with his actual achievements. In this article, we will delve into why Theismann is sometimes talked about as an all-time great quarterback and why this is a misconception. We will explore his career highlights and the reasons why he is not considered an all-time great by many.

Struggles to Be Labeled an All-Time Great

It is widely known that Joe Theismann was a solid NFL quarterback, but the idea of him being an all-time great is often met with skepticism. Many believe that calling him an all-time great is an overreach. His induction into the Hall of Fame has never been a serious topic of discussion, nor has he been mentioned in the top 25 quarterbacks of all time by most lists. Theismann was most famous for the 1983 season, when he had a monster year. However, beyond that, his legacy is not as strong as some others.

Media Influence and Historical Context

Part of the reason why Theismann is sometimes discussed as an all-time great stems from his association and influence within the media. As a former quarterback and current analyst, he had a unique position to critique players and game plans. His famous interception in Super Bowl XVII has often been cited as a low point in his career. This play, a suicide-sacrifice interception, was one of the dumbest in the history of the game, overshadowing his accomplishments in the 1983 season.

There are other contributing factors to why Theismann is not considered an all-time great. For example, during his time with the Redskins, the team's success was largely due to a strong offensive line and a collaborative coaching staff. Joe Gibbs, the head coach who won three Super Bowls, had success with three quarterbacks, none of whom were considered elite players. This suggests that Theismann's success was more situational and less tied to his individual talent.

College and Early NFL Career

Theismann's college career at Notre Dame also played a role in his later reputation. Being a quarterback at Notre Dame, a prestigious college, elevated his profile, but this does not necessarily translate to his NFL achievements. His early career with the Washington Redskins coincided with the emergence of Joe Gibbs as a premier coach and the prominence of Theismann as a quarterback. However, Theismann's career highlight is often overshadowed by the success of his teams and the contributions of his coach.

Conclusion and Reflection

In conclusion, while Joe Theismann had a successful NFL career, including two Pro Bowl appearances (one in a strike-shortened season), his status as an all-time great is a mislabel. His career, while notable, is better described as a solid player with a few standout seasons, rather than an all-time great. Theismann's leg-breaking injury against Lawrence Taylor is one of his most memorable moments, but it overshadows the nuances of his career and his overall impact on the game.

It is important to remember that while Theismann was a key player during one of the Redskins' most successful periods and had notable achievements, the idea of him being an all-time great is more a reflection of his presence in the media and his association with a successful team than his actual performance on the field. His legacy should be evaluated based on his true contributions and the impact he had on the game, rather than his status in public discourse.