Photo: Getty Images
Craig Morton, the first quarterback to start the Super Bowl for two different teams—the Dallas Cowboys and Denver Broncos—died on Saturday in Mill Valley, California, at age 83. The news was confirmed by the Denver Broncos through his family.
Morton’s football career spanned 18 seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He began with the Cowboys, who chose him fifth overall in the 1965 NFL Draft after a successful college career at the University of California under coach Marv Levy. Morton led the Cowboys to their first Super Bowl appearance in the 1970 season, though they lost to the Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl V. He earned a Super Bowl ring with Dallas in 1971 as a backup to Roger Staubach in the team’s win over the Miami Dolphins.
After a decade with the Cowboys, Morton was traded to the New York Giants in 1974, where he played for over two years. In 1977, he joined the Broncos and quickly revitalized his career, guiding Denver to its first playoff appearance and Super Bowl berth in the 1977 season. The Broncos finished 12-2 in the regular season but lost Super Bowl XII to the Cowboys. Morton threw for 1,929 yards and 14 touchdowns that season, earning Comeback Player of the Year honors, as described by Yahoo Sports.
Over his career, Morton played in 207 games, starting 144. He passed for 27,908 yards, 183 touchdowns, and 187 interceptions. He was inducted into the Broncos’ Ring of Fame in 1988 and the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. Morton is still third on the Broncos’ all-time passing yards list behind John Elway and Peyton Manning. He was also honored by the College Football Hall of Fame in 1992, reflecting his standout years at Cal.
The New York Giants released a statement: "We are saddened to hear of Craig’s passing. He was a great leader and teammate. Our thoughts are with his family and friends."
Morton retired after the 1982 season, leaving a legacy as one of only four quarterbacks to start the Super Bowl for two different teams. He is remembered for his leadership, resilience, and significant contributions to both the Cowboys and Broncos.