Craig Morton, Pioneering Quarterback Who Started Super Bowls for Two Teams, Dies at 83
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Craig Morton, the first quarterback to start a Super Bowl for two different franchises, has died at age 83. He played 18 seasons in the NFL, most notably for the Dallas Cowboys and Denver Broncos, and was later inducted into the Broncos' Ring of Fame. His career bridged eras, playing under legendary coaches and leaving a statistical legacy that ranked in the top 20 upon his retirement.
Facts First
- Craig Morton has died at age 83 in Mill Valley, California, as confirmed by the Denver Broncos.
- He was the first quarterback to start a Super Bowl for two franchises, the Dallas Cowboys (Super Bowl V) and Denver Broncos (Super Bowl XII).
- Morton played 18 NFL seasons, retiring after the 1982 season ranked in the top 20 all-time in passing yards and touchdowns.
- He led the 1977 Denver Broncos to a 12-2 record and the AFC Championship, overcoming a hip injury during the playoffs.
- Morton was inducted into the Denver Broncos' Ring of Fame in 1988, honoring his contributions to the franchise.
What Happened
Craig Morton, a former National Football League (NFL) quarterback, died on Saturday at age 83 in Mill Valley, California. His death was confirmed by the Denver Broncos through his family. Morton spent 18 years in the NFL, achieving the notable distinction of being the first quarterback to start a Super Bowl for two different franchises: the Dallas Cowboys and the Denver Broncos. He is one of only four quarterbacks to accomplish this, alongside Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, and Kurt Warner.
Why this Matters to You
If you are a fan of football history, Morton's career represents a significant bridge between eras. He played under coaching legends like Tom Landry, Bill Walsh, and Marv Levy, and his unique path—including being part of a high-profile quarterback rotation and pivotal trades—shaped the fortunes of multiple franchises. His statistical achievements, ranking in the top 20 for passing yards and touchdowns upon his retirement in 1982, cement his place in the sport's record books. For Broncos fans, his leadership during the 1977 'Orange Crush' season and his Ring of Fame status make him a foundational figure in the team's history.
What's Next
Morton's legacy is likely to be remembered in tributes from the teams and communities he impacted, particularly the Denver Broncos organization where he is enshrined in the Ring of Fame. His pioneering role as a multi-franchise Super Bowl starter may continue to be highlighted in historical retrospectives of the NFL. The football world may now reflect on his unique career, which connected some of the game's most iconic figures and teams across two decades.