Johnny Unitas

Johnny Unitas was a professional football player for the Indianapolis Colts from the 1950s through the 1970s. As a quarter back, he was known for his throwing capabilities. He died on September 11, 2002, but left behind a legacy.

Unitas is known to be one of the greatest football players of all time with records still held. He started his college playing years at the University of Louisville after they offered him a scholarship. He was passed up by several colleges and when he was finally accepted by one, he failed the entrance exam. After being accepted to Louisville, he almost immediately began to set records and impress the coaches.

In 1955, he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, but was later released since they already had enough quarterbacks competing for the position. It was not until 1956, when he was signed by the Indianapolis Colts, that he was able to show off his talent. In this season, he began his record making days by earning himself the NFL’s Most Valuable Player award. 1958 was the season that Unitas led the Colts to their first championship by beating the Giants in overtime. This was the first overtime game in NFL history and football enthusiasts often refer to this game as the greatest game ever played.

Johnny Unitas played his last game in San Diego with the Chargers in 1974. A record still standing, and considered to be the Mount Everest of records, is the 47 game streak with a touchdown reception in each one. Several other records were made and broken, and although Unitas has passed, he will never be forgotten.