Johnny Unitas: Career Overview

Date of Birth: May 7, 1933
Position: Quarterback (QB)
Teams Played For: Baltimore Colts (BAL), San Diego Chargers (SD)
Career Span: 1956 - 1973

Career Highlights and Accomplishments

• Three-Time NFL Champion: Unitas led the Baltimore Colts to NFL championships in 1958, 1959, and 1968.
• Super Bowl III Champion: He was part of the Colts team that faced the New York Jets in Super Bowl III.
• Three-Time NFL MVP: Unitas earned the Most Valuable Player award in 1959, 1964, and 1967.
• Pro Bowl Selections: He was selected to the Pro Bowl 10 times throughout his career.
• First Player to Achieve 40,000 Passing Yards: Unitas was the first quarterback in NFL history to surpass 40,000 passing yards.
• NFL All-Time Team: He was named to the NFL's 75th Anniversary All-Time Team.
• Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame: Unitas was enshrined in the Hall of Fame in 1979, recognizing his impact on the game.
• Innovator of the Modern Passing Game: Regarded as one of the first quarterbacks to utilize the two-minute drill effectively.
• Career Passing Stats: Unitas finished his career with 40,239 passing yards, 290 touchdowns, and a passer rating of 78.2.

Legacy

Johnny Unitas is often considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. His ability to lead teams, combined with his innovative approach to the passing game, helped shape the way the position is played today. Known for his toughness, leadership, and competitive spirit, Unitas left an indelible mark on professional football that continues to influence future generations of players.