During the 207 games in his career, Morton completed 2,053 of 3,786 tries for 27,908 yds. He totaled 134.8 yards per contest through the air. Morton passed for 183 TD’s while tossing 187 picks. He was driven back 2,430 yards while being sacked 405 times. His touchdown percentage was 4.8% and his interception percentage was 4.9%.
Morton threw for 0 touchdowns in his last year compared to 0 interceptions and his longest pass of the year went for 0 yds. His touchdown rate when attempting a pass was 0.0% and his interception rate was 0.0%. He lost a total of 0 yards while being sacked 0 times. He averaged 0.0 yds per game through the air with a 0.0 QB rating. During his 0 contests played in his final year, Morton completed 0 of 0 attempts for a total of 0 yards.
Craig Morton, a former professional American football quarterback, had an illustrious career that spanned across three decades in the National Football League. He played for the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and Denver Broncos, leaving a lasting impression on fans and teammates alike.
Morton’s journey began in 1965 when he was drafted by the Cowboys, where he first earned recognition as an accomplished quarterback. With the Cowboys, he achieved several milestones, including leading them to Super Bowl V against the Baltimore Colts. Although the Cowboys lost the game, Morton’s performance still resonated with fans and critics alike. In the following years, he continued to make significant contributions to the team before moving to the New York Giants in 1975.
While in New York, Morton played a pivotal role in helping the Giants break their long-standing losing streak. His leadership and skill on the field contributed to the team’s successful in the 1970s. After a brief stint with the Giants, he was picked up by the Denver Broncos in 1977.
In Denver, Morton enjoyed perhaps the most successful period of his career, helping the Broncos reach Super Bowl XII in 1978. Though they were defeated by the Dallas Cowboys, Morton’s performance in the game was nothing short of impressive. He threw for 171 yards and two touchdowns, which earned him the admiration and respect of gridiron fans around the country.
Morton continued to play into the 1980s, making appearances in several more games before retiring in 1982. Throughout his career, he threw for over 38,000 yards and 210 touchdowns, cementing his place among the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.
Not only did Morton possess natural talent and skill, but he was also recognized for his composure and leadership abilities on the field. He was a mentor to many young players and was respected as a team player who always put the needs of his team above his own.
His dedication and hard work were recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006 when he was inducted as a “contributor,” a testament to the lasting impact he had on the sport and the people he worked with.
In conclusion, Craig Morton’s legacy in the NFL is one of determination, skill, and leadership. He may have retired from the game decades ago, but his influence can still be felt in the many players he inspired and in the memories of fans who still recall his exceptional performances on the field. Not only was Morton a talented quarterback, but he was also a valuable asset off the field. As a team captain, he took on the responsibility of motivating and unifying his teammates to work towards a common goal. Moreover, Morton’s dedication to the team extended beyond the field; he was known for holding informal meetings with his teammates, where they discussed everything from strategy to personal lives.
Off the field, Morton also made a mark in the community. He was known for his philanthropy and dedication to helping others. He established the Craig Morton Foundation, which aimed to provide opportunities for underserved youth through programs centered around athletics and education. Morton’s dedication to giving back to the community was evident in his actions, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Despite playing in a time when the game of football was much different than it is today, Morton’s performance and leadership on and off the field remain a standard for modern quarterbacks to aspire to. Not only did he establish himself as a top player during his time, but he also left a lasting impact on the future of football.
In summary, the legacy of Craig Morton in the NFL is one of determination, skill, leadership, and community involvement. His contributions to the game of football and the countless lives he impacted both on and off the field will never be forgotten, and his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame serves as a testament to the enduring impact his career had on the sport.