Joe Theismann is an entrepreneur and the former star quarterback for the Washington Redskins. He spent the last two decades working for ESPN on their NFL broadcast and the NFL Network.
A 1971 graduate of University of Notre Dame, Theismann received All-American honors and led the Fighting Irish to consecutive Cotton Bowls and was runner-up to Jim Plunkett in the Heisman Trophy balloting. In 2003, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
After turning down offers from the Minnesota Twins and Miami Dolphins, Theismann began his pro career in the Canadian Football League, spending three years with the Toronto Argonauts before joining the Redskins in 1974. From the humble beginnings as a punt returner to Super Bowl Champion, Theismann has experienced many of the challenges we all face in our constant quest to find success, by overcoming adversity.
As a 12-year NFL veteran, Theismann played in 163 consecutive games from 1974 to 1985 and holds the Redskin record for passing yards, completions and attempts. He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and led the Redskins to a 27-17 victory over the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII.
In 1982, Theismann was elected the NFL’s Man of the Year for his community service and dedication to the health and welfare of children. In 1983, he won the league’s MVP award.
Then, in 1985, his career was abruptly cut short when his leg was shattered in a game against the New York Giants on Monday Night Football.
As an actor, Theismann appeared in Cannonball Run II and The Man with Bogart's Face, and on the small screen he played himself in the TV series “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Necessary Roughness.” He has also starred in the TV movie “The Man from Left Field,” and in the Hallmark Original “Love on the Sidelines.”
Today, Theismann oversees a popular Washington, DC restaurant that bears his name. Staying true to his concern for children, he is a member on the Sports Advisory Board of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
