McMahon threw for 100 touchdowns while giving up 90 picks. His TD percentage was 3.9% and his interception percentage was 3.5%. He was driven back 1,356 yds while being sacked 226 times. He totaled 152.5 yds per contest through the air. In 119 contests in his career, McMahon connected on 1,492 of his 2,573 attempts for a total of 18,148 yards.
In his last season, McMahon passed for 0 yards with 0 touchdowns and 0 picks. He was sacked 0 times for a total of 0 yards lost behind the line of scrimmage. He had a QB rating of 0.0 with a TD percentage of 0.0% and an interception rate of 0.0%. His longest completion was for 0 yds and he threw for 0.0 yards per game. McMahon completed 0 of his 0 passes in his last year for a completion percentage of 0.0%.
In the world of American football, few names are as iconic as Jim McMahon. As a quarterback for both the Chicago Bears and the Philadelphia Eagles, McMahon left an indelible mark on the sport that is still celebrated today. From his early years at Brigham Young University to his long and successful NFL career, McMahon’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and determination.
Born in 1959 in Provo, Utah, Jim McMahon began his football journey as a child, playing soccer, baseball, and basketball with friends. His innate athletic talent and competitive spirit soon led him to football, where he excelled at both quarterback and linebacker. He became a celebrated figure at Brigham Young University after leading the team to victory in the Holiday Bowl during the 1978-1979 season.
In his senior year at BYU, McMahon led the team to victory in the 1981 Holiday Bowl, showcasing his exceptional skills as a quarterback. This success earned him the Davey O’Brien Award, which is presented annually to the top college quarterback in the nation. Additionally, his outstanding performance throughout his time at BYU earned him a place in the school’s athletic Hall of Fame.
Following his successful college career, McMahon was selected by the Chicago Bears with the fifth overall pick in the 1982 NFL Draft. Known for their aggressive defense and “Super Bowl Shuffle,” the Bears were a powerhouse team at the time, and McMahon’s arrival signaled an exciting new chapter in their history.
His initial years with the Bears were marked by ups and downs, as McMahon worked to establish his role on the team. However, his hard work and determination paid off when he was named the starting quarterback in 1984. That same year, he led the Bears to a 15-1 record, earning a trip to Super Bowl XX, where they defeated the New England Patriots in a lopsided victory, 46-10.
By the time McMahon and the Bears were ready to face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX, the quarterback had become a national sensation. His strong arm, play-calling ability, and charismatic personality made him a fan favorite, and his iconic “Beer Helmet” became a symbol of his rebellious spirit.
In the 1985-1986 season, as the Bears continued their dominant streak, McMahon’s must-watch performances solidified his status as a top-tier quarterback. This season also marked the peak of McMahon’s career, as he led the Bears to an incredible 15-1 regular-season record, with the team’s only loss coming in the season finale against the Miami Dolphins. This outstanding play not only guided the Bears to the Super Bowl but also earned Jim the prestigious Super Bowl MVP award.
However, despite McMahon’s success, his time with the Bears was not without controversy. As a rebel without a cause, he often found himself at odds with the team’s management and coaching staff. This rift ultimately led to his trade from the Bears to the San Diego Chargers in 1989, where he struggled to find his footing and contribute significantly to the team’s success.
After two lackluster seasons with the Chargers and a brief stint with the Minnesota Vikings, Jim McMahon found himself without a team in 1990. Soon after, he was picked up by the Philadelphia Eagles, where he served as an understudy to Randall Cunningham. Although his time in Philadelphia was brief, McMahon demonstrated that he still possessed the skills and instincts needed to succeed in the NFL.
In 1994, after an extensive career in the league, McMahon retired from professional football. His legacy, however, lived on, as he remained a beloved figure among football fans and his peers alike.
Throughout his career, Jim McMahon personified the rebellious spirit and charisma that defined the quarterback position during the 1980s. His daring play-calling and ability to lead his team to victory showcased the strategic genius that would be emulated by future quarterbacks in the league.
Beyond his impact on the field, McMahon’s personal style and independence served as an inspiration to many who came after him. His iconic “Beer Helmet,” a symbol of his rebellious nature, has become synonymous with his legacy and remains a recognizable piece of NFL history.
In conclusion, Jim McMahon’s career in the NFL stands as a testament to the power of determination and individuality. His ability to push boundaries and make a name for himself in a league dominated by conformity and tradition has left a lasting impact on the sport and its fans. For those who love football, the memory of McMahon’s most dominant years as a Bears’ quarterback will always be treasured, and his legacy will continue to inspire new generations of players and fans alike.