Dawson threw for 239 TD’s compared to 183 interceptions. His TD percentage on pass attempts was 6.4% and his interception rate was 4.9%. He lost a combined 2,256 yards while being the victim of a QB sack 376 different times. He totaled 136.1 passing yards per contest. During the 211 contests in his career, Dawson connected on 2,136 of 3,741 tries for 28,711 yds.
Dawson threw for 0 touchdowns in his last season while tossing 0 picks and his longest completion of the year went for 0 yds. His touchdown percentage was 0.0% and his interception rate was 0.0%. He lost 0 yds while being the victim of a quarterback sack 0 times. He averaged 0.0 yards per contest through the air with a 0.0 quarterback rating. In his 0 games played in his final year, Dawson connected on 0 of 0 tries for 0 yds.
Len Dawson’s name is etched in the history of the NFL as an accomplished quarterback with an impressive list of accomplishments. His legacy extends beyond his 19 seasons as a professional football player, encompassing his role as a television analyst, his induction into the NFL Hall of Fame, and his impact on the Kansas City Chiefs. In this article, we will delve deeper into Dawson’s remarkable career and his enduring influence on the sport.
Len Dawson was born in Alliance, Ohio, on June 20, 1935. He began his football journey at the University of Purdue, where he played as a backup quarterback during his first two years. However, his fortunes changed when he was named the starting quarterback for the 1955 season. In his senior year, Dawson led the Boilermakers to an 8-1-1 record and earned a place in the College All-Star game.
Dawson’s remarkable college performance caught the attention of professional scouts, and in 1957, he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers as the 5th overall pick in the NFL Draft. After four seasons in Pittsburgh, Dawson joined the Cleveland Browns and continued to develop as a player before being traded to the Dallas Texans, where he would enjoy the greatest period of success in his career.
In his time with the Kansas City Chiefs, Len Dawson elevated both his individual career and the team’s overall performance. He led the Chiefs to their first Super Bowl appearance in 1967, where they faced off against the highly favored Green Bay Packers. In a nail-biting contest, the Chiefs put up a valiant fight but ultimately lost with a score of 35-10.
Despite this setback, Dawson’s leadership and playmaking abilities shone through, as he led the Chiefs to two more Super Bowl appearances. In 1970, they were defeated by the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IV. However, in 1973, Dawson and the Chiefs earned their first Super Bowl victory against the NFC champion Miami Dolphins. This triumph solidified Dawson’s status as a legendary figure in the history of the NFL.
Following his retirement in 1975, Dawson transitioned into a career in broadcasting, where he served as a football analyst until 2011. His insightful commentary and engaging demeanor endeared him to fans across the country.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the sport, Dawson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987. This honor cemented his status as one of the most influential and respected figures in NFL history Apart from his on-field accomplishments, Len Dawson is also remembered for his dedication to the Kansas City community, where he established the Len Dawson Scholarship Foundation to support local youth. This initiative reflects his commitment to giving back and using his platform to inspire future generations.
Len Dawson’s legacy in the NFL is not only defined by his numerous accolades and unforgettable moments but also by the way his career encapsulates the evolution of the sport. Over the course of two decades, Dawson was a part of transformative changes in the league and witnessed the emergence of the modern NFL. Today, he serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, dedication, and leadership in achieving success at the highest level.
In conclusion, Len Dawson’s impact on the NFL is immeasurable, as his impressive accomplishments both on and off the field have left an indelible mark on the sport. His unforgettable performances as a quarterback, his contributions to the Kansas City Chiefs, and his unwavering dedication to the community all contribute to a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with fans long after his playing days are over.