Craig Morton, the celebrated former NFL quarterback, passed away on Saturday, May 9, at the age of 83. Surrounded by family in Mill Valley, California, Morton left behind a legacy that spans three decades in professional football, including distinguished tenures with some of the NFL’s most renowned franchises.
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Born on February 5, 1943, in Flint, Michigan, Morton showcased his athletic prowess at the University of California, Berkeley, where he played college football for the Golden Bears. His talent did not go unnoticed, and he was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the 1965 NFL Draft. After spending several years honing his skills as a backup, he solidified his place as the team’s starting quarterback in 1969.
Morton’s career in the NFL was notable for its longevity and versatility, spanning 18 seasons during which he played for the Cowboys, the New York Giants, and the Denver Broncos. Notably, he became the first starting quarterback in history to lead two different teams to the Super Bowl. His debut appearance in the championship game was with the Cowboys in 1971, although they fell short to the Baltimore Colts. The following year, Morton helped the Cowboys clinch the Super Bowl title.
After nine successful seasons in Dallas, Morton moved on to the New York Giants, where he spent three years before concluding his illustrious playing career with the Broncos. His time in Denver was particularly significant, as he faced off against the Cowboys in the Super Bowl again in 1978, which ended in another defeat. Over the course of his career, he accumulated accolades that underlined his skill and determination, including the NFL Comeback Player of the Year and the AFC Offensive Player of the Year awards in 1977.
By the time he retired in 1982 after three games in that season, Morton ranked among the top 20 quarterbacks of all time in terms of passing yards and touchdown passes, a testament to his enduring impact on the game. In recognition of his contributions, Morton was inducted into the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in 1988, a mere six years following his departure from professional play.
Following his death, tributes poured in from all three franchises with which Morton was associated. The Broncos expressed their sorrow over his passing via an X post, while the Cowboys sent thoughts and prayers to his family. The Giants remembered him as a “great leader and teammate,” reflecting on the respect he garnered from those who played alongside him.
Morton’s achievements were not limited to the NFL. In 1992, he was inducted into the National Football Foundation’s College Football Hall of Fame, recognising his accomplishments during his college years. Archie Manning, who was then the chairman of the National Football Foundation, commended Morton for embodying excellence on the field, showcasing leadership under pressure, and maintaining a lifelong commitment to football.
Despite the challenges he faced with teams that often struggled in the standings, Morton’s talent, toughness, and competitive spirit earned him respect among peers and fans alike. His legacy is marked not only by his on-field success but also by the deep connections he formed with teammates and supporters throughout his career.
He is survived by his wife, Kym, along with his sister, children, and grandchildren. Morton’s passing has left a void in the football community, but his contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come.