Sonny Jurgensen

Sonny Jurgensen wasn't your typical gunslinger quarterback. He wasn't known for scrambling or extending plays; his magic resided in his pinpoint accuracy and a throwing arm that earned him the nickname "The Cannon from Carolina." Jurgensen's 18-year career, spent with the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins, solidified his place among the finest pure passers in NFL history, culminating in his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1983.

Born August 23, 1934 - Jurgensen's journey began in Wilmington, North Carolina, where he excelled at multiple sports before heading to Duke University. Drafted by the Eagles in 1957, he spent his first few seasons as a backup, honing his craft. However, upon becoming the full-time starter in 1960, Jurgensen exploded. He led the league in passing yards twice with the Eagles, showcasing his exceptional ability to dissect defenses. His throws, a mix of bullets and lasers, found receivers in tight windows with remarkable consistency.

In 1964, Jurgensen was traded to the Washington Redskins, a move that would define his legacy. Here, he flourished under head coach George Allen, who built an offense around his strengths. Jurgensen thrived, leading the league in passing yards three times for the Redskins and even tying Johnny Unitas' single-season touchdown record in 1961 with 32. His five Pro Bowl selections and career passer rating of 82.6, the highest for any player in the pre-1978 "Dead Ball Era," stand as testaments to his dominance.

Jurgensen wasn't just about statistics. He was a leader, a steadying presence on the field. He demanded the best from himself and his teammates, but he also had a playful side. His famous "hot dog" celebration, where he mimicked throwing a hot dog to the stands after a touchdown, became a fan favorite.

While Jurgensen never won a Super Bowl, he left an undeniable mark on the game. He was a pioneer in the world of the modern quarterback, a player who relied on his arm and tactical brilliance rather than mobility. His influence on the game is undeniable, inspiring generations of quarterbacks to prioritize precision passing.

Even after his retirement, Jurgensen remained a fixture in the NFL world as a broadcaster. His insightful commentary and infectious enthusiasm for the game solidified his status as a legend, not just for the Washington Redskins or Philadelphia Eagles, but for the entire NFL. Sonny Jurgensen was, and remains, a true gunslinger, a master of the aerial assault, and a deserving member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

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Born August 23, 1934 - Wilmington, North Carolina -Sonny Jurgensen was a former quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins. Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrined the fantastic quarterback in the class of 1983.

Sonny attended Duke University where in his first season playing for the Blue Devils he had a bigger impact as a DB than a QB, registering a total of five interceptions. In later years he went on to start at QB and was eventually drafted into the NFL by the Eagles.

As a back up in 1960, behind Norm Van Brocklin, Jurgensen won his only NFL Championship.