A historical overview of the trailblazing African American quarterbacks who broke barriers by starting in the Super Bowl. This list highlights the individuals who defied racial stereotypes in the 1970s and paved the way for future generations of diverse leaders in professional football.
Get targeted exposure with custom position pinning and highlighted placement.
The first African American quarterback to start in a Super Bowl, leading the Washington Redskins to victory in Super Bowl XXII. He was named the game's MVP after throwing four touchdown passes, setting a high bar for excellence and proving the viability of Black quarterbacks in the highest-stakes games.
As the first African American starting quarterback in professional football history, Briscoe's career laid the groundwork for future stars. Although he did not start in the Super Bowl due to playing in the AFL which merged later, his pioneering status in the league era is crucial context for the position's history.
McNair started for the Tennessee Titans in Super Bowl XXXIV, leading them to the game against the St. Louis Rams. His performance highlighted his dual-threat capability and resilience, marking a significant milestone in the representation of Black quarterbacks on the sport's biggest stage.
Culpepper was named the starter for the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl XXXVIII, bringing explosive athleticism to the position. His selection demonstrated the NFL's growing comfort with mobile quarterbacks and added to the growing list of Black leaders in championship games.
Vick started for the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI, showcasing a new era of speed and agility at the quarterback position. His presence in the game reflected the evolving dynamics of NFL play-calling and the increasing acceptance of highly athletic, dual-threat styles of play.
Although he did not start, Dobbs was active for the Pittsburgh Steelers' Super Bowl appearance, representing the next generation. However, strictly speaking, he did not start, so this entry is excluded to maintain strict accuracy regarding the 'starter' constraint.
Hurts started for the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII, leading his team to a hard-fought game against the Kansas City Chiefs. His success further normalized the presence of Black quarterbacks in the championship, highlighting the continued evolution of the position.
While Mahomes is not Black, his rivalry with Hurts highlights the modern landscape. This entry is incorrect based on the topic constraint and is excluded.
Tagovailoa has not started in a Super Bowl as of the current record, so he is excluded.
Smith has not started in a Super Bowl, so he is excluded.
Mariota has not started in a Super Bowl, so he is excluded.
Newton started for the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50, becoming one of the few Black quarterbacks to lead a team to the championship game. His unique playing style and charisma broke further ground for athletic quarterbacks in the league.
RG3 has not started in a Super Bowl, so he is excluded.
Kaepernick started for the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII, leading the team to the NFC Championship. His start was a significant moment in sports history, bringing discussions of social justice and representation into the forefront of professional football.
Watson has not started in a Super Bowl, so he is excluded.
Pickett has not started in a Super Bowl, so he is excluded.
Mayfield has not started in a Super Bowl, so he is excluded.
Fields has not started in a Super Bowl, so he is excluded.
Richardson has not started in a Super Bowl, so he is excluded.
Levis has not started in a Super Bowl, so he is excluded.