Joe Theismann is an entrepreneur who has achieved success on and off the field as both a Super Bowl-winning quarterback for the Washington Redskins and as a broadcaster.
Theismann graduated in 1971 from the University of Notre Dame where he received All-American honors and led the Fighting Irish to consecutive Cotton Bowls. In 2003, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. After being drafted by the Miami Dolphins and Major League Baseball’s Minnesota Twins, he chose to play in the Canadian Football League for the Toronto Argonauts from 1971-1973. In 1974, he joined the Washington Redskins.
A 12-year NFL veteran, Theismann played in 163 consecutive games from 1974 to 1985 and holds Redskins’ records for passing yardage (25,206), completions (2.044) and attempts (3,602). A two-time Pro Bowl selection and Pro Bowl MVP, he led Washington to a 27-17 victory over the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII.
Theismann was named the NFL’s Man of the Year in 1982 for his community service and dedication to the health and welfare of children. He also won the league’s 1983 Most Valuable Player Award after leading the Redskins to an NFL-record 541 points and a second consecutive Super Bowl appearance. His career ended abruptly in 1985 after sustaining a badly broken leg during a Monday Night Football game against the New York Giants on national television.
A much sought-after motivational speaker, Theismann also oversees the popular Washington, D.C. restaurant, Theismann’s Restaurant.
