Former NFL quarterback Craig Morton died at age 83. He played for the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants and Denver Broncos, and the Broncos said he was a Ring of Fame member. [1, 2]
The Cowboys picked Morton fifth overall in the 1965 NFL Draft. He became their starter in 1969 and led Dallas to a 10-2-1 record before taking the team to its first Super Bowl the next season, a 16-13 loss to the Baltimore Colts. [1]
Morton later was traded to the New York Giants in 1974 before finding success again in Denver. He spent six seasons with the Broncos and guided them to a 12-2 record in 1977 and their first Super Bowl appearance. [1, 2]
Morton's career numbers reflected his long run as a starter. He finished with 27,908 passing yards, 183 touchdown passes and an 81-62-1 record, including 10,279 yards with Dallas and 11,895 with Denver. [2]
Former Broncos receiver Haven Moses praised Morton after his death, saying, "Craig Morton is unbelievable" and adding, "To me, he’s the most valuable player in the National Football League." [2]
CBS Sports said Morton died on Sunday, while Fox News said Saturday. [1, 2]
