Warren Moon is a former professional football quarterback who had a historic career in the NFL and the Canadian Football League (CFL). Widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, Moon’s remarkable journey to success is a testament to perseverance and talent. He was known for his strong arm, exceptional accuracy, and leadership on the field. Moon’s career bridged two major football leagues and helped break down barriers for African American quarterbacks in professional football.

Early Life and College Career

Warren Moon was born on November 18, 1956, in Los Angeles, California. Growing up, Moon faced challenges related to his race and his desire to play quarterback, a position traditionally dominated by white players at the time. Despite this, he excelled in sports, particularly football, where he showcased his natural talent and leadership abilities.

Moon attended Alexander Hamilton High School in Los Angeles, where he played quarterback and earned recognition for his performances on the field.

After high school, Moon attended West Los Angeles College before transferring to the University of Washington, where he played college football for the Washington Huskies from 1975 to 1977. During his time at Washington, he helped lead the team to a Rose Bowl victory in 1978 and earned All-American honors. His success at Washington helped cement his reputation as one of the top quarterbacks in the country.

Canadian Football League (CFL)

Despite his success in college, Moon went undrafted in the 1978 NFL Draft, partly due to the prejudice against African American quarterbacks and concerns about his unorthodox playing style. Instead of giving up on his dream, Moon joined the CFL’s Edmonton Eskimos in 1978.

• Edmonton Eskimos (1978–1983): Moon’s career in the CFL was nothing short of legendary. He quickly became one of the league’s top quarterbacks, leading the Eskimos to five consecutive Grey Cup championships (1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982). His time in the CFL was marked by outstanding statistics, including throwing for over 21,000 yards and 144 touchdowns. Moon was known for his explosive arm strength, deep passing ability, and strong leadership skills.
• MVP and Records: During his time in the CFL, Moon was named the CFL Most Outstanding Player in 1983 and earned multiple All-Star selections. He also set numerous records, including leading the league in passing yards and touchdowns during multiple seasons.

National Football League (NFL)

In 1984, after dominating in the CFL, Moon made the jump to the NFL when he signed with the Houston Oilers. His transition to the NFL marked a new chapter in his career, as he would go on to become one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history.

• Houston Oilers (1984–1993): Moon played for the Oilers for nine seasons and established himself as a top-tier quarterback. He became the first African American quarterback to make a significant impact in the NFL, helping pave the way for future black quarterbacks. He earned nine Pro Bowl selections during his NFL career, and his style of play, which featured strong passing and quick decision-making, became a blueprint for future quarterbacks.
• Success and Playoff Appearances: Moon helped lead the Oilers to multiple playoff appearances, including a historic 1992 AFC Championship Game appearance. He was known for his ability to throw deep passes and his effectiveness in the run-and-shoot offense, a high-powered passing attack that became one of the most exciting offensive schemes in the league.
• Minnesota Vikings (1994–1996): After leaving Houston, Moon spent three seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, continuing to play at a high level and earning another Pro Bowl selection in 1995. He was instrumental in mentoring young quarterbacks like Brad Johnson and helped the Vikings reach the playoffs during his tenure.
• Seattle Seahawks (1997–1998): Moon finished his career with two seasons at the Seattle Seahawks before retiring from professional football in 2000. Despite being in the later stages of his career, Moon remained a competitive and effective quarterback, known for his leadership and ability to execute the offense.

Post-Playing Career and Legacy

After retiring from football, Moon became a broadcaster and a prominent figure in football analysis. He has also been active in various philanthropic endeavors, particularly in programs that support youth development and education.

• Hall of Fame: Moon was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006, a well-deserved honor recognizing his exceptional career in both the CFL and the NFL. His induction made him the first player to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame primarily for his achievements in the CFL.
• Accolades and Recognition: Over the course of his career, Moon set numerous records, including being one of the first quarterbacks to throw for over 70,000 career passing yards. He was also named to the NFL All-Decade Team (1990s) and has been celebrated for his contributions to both the CFL and the NFL.
• Influence on African American Quarterbacks: Moon’s success as an African American quarterback in both leagues helped break down racial barriers in the NFL. He became a role model for future generations of black quarterbacks, such as Russell Wilson, Patrick Mahomes, and Lamar Jackson, who would later go on to achieve success in the NFL.

Career Highlights and Achievements

• CFL:
  • 5-time Grey Cup Champion (1978–1982) with the Edmonton Eskimos
  • CFL Most Outstanding Player in 1983
  • Over 21,000 passing yards and 144 touchdowns in the CFL
• NFL:
  • 9-time Pro Bowl selection (1988, 1990–1995, 1997)
  • NFL All-Decade Team (1990s)
  • First African American quarterback to start in a Pro Bowl
  • NFL Passing Yards: Over 49,000 passing yards and 291 touchdowns
• Pro Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2006
• Cultural Impact: First African American quarterback to break through in both the CFL and NFL, helping pave the way for future generations.

Summary

• Position: Quarterback
• NFL Teams: Houston Oilers, Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks
• CFL Teams: Edmonton Eskimos
• Pro Bowls: 9-time Pro Bowl selection
• CFL Championships: 5-time Grey Cup champion
• Pro Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2006
• Passing Stats: Over 70,000 passing yards and over 400 touchdowns between the CFL and NFL.

Warren Moon is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game. His success in both the CFL and the NFL, coupled with his ability to overcome racial barriers and set records, has cemented his place as a legend in professional football history.