University of Alabama has a rich history of producing some of the best NFL quarterbacks. Over the years, the Crimson Tide has nurtured a plethora of talented signal callers who have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL. This article will delve into the history of these remarkable quarterbacks and their impact on the league.
The first notable Alabama quarterback to make a name for himself in the NFL was Joe Namath. Known as “Broadway Joe,” Namath was a three-time Heisman Trophy winner and a key player in the New York Jets’ stunning victory over the Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III. His charismatic presence and on-field prowess made him a legend, and he remains one of the most iconic figures in the history of college football and the NFL.
Following in Namath’s footsteps was another Alabama great, Ken Stabler. Stabler won the Heisman Trophy in 1969 and went on to have a Hall of Fame career with the Oakland Raiders. His leadership and arm strength helped lead the Raiders to Super Bowl XI, where they faced off against the Minnesota Vikings. Although they lost the game, Stabler’s performance earned him the Super Bowl MVP award.
Another prominent Alabama quarterback was Jay Barker, who played for the Crimson Tide from 1993 to 1996. Barker was known for his strong arm and ability to make big plays in crucial moments. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the second round of the 1997 NFL Draft and spent 10 seasons in the league, including stints with the Jets, Denver Broncos, and Carolina Panthers.
One of the most recent Alabama quarterbacks to make a name for himself in the NFL is AJ McCarron. McCarron was a three-year starter for the Crimson Tide from 2011 to 2013 and won the Heisman Trophy in 2013. After going undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft, McCarron signed with the Cincinnati Bengals and spent three seasons with the team before moving on to the Green Bay Packers and the Los Angeles Chargers.
Currently, the most notable Alabama quarterback is Mac Jones. Jones was a two-year starter for the Crimson Tide from 2019 to 2020 and won the Heisman Trophy in 2020. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft and has quickly become a fan favorite. Jones’ leadership and arm strength have already made him a promising talent in the league.
In conclusion, the University of Alabama has a storied history of producing exceptional NFL quarterbacks. From Joe Namath to Mac Jones, these players have left an indelible mark on the sport and have helped shape the legacy of the Crimson Tide. As the program continues to produce top talent, fans can look forward to more success on the field and in the NFL.
