Steve Bartkowski

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Lore & Background

Bartkowski's professional journey began when he was chosen with the number one pick in the 1975 NFL draft by the Atlanta Falcons, a selection secured after a trade with the Colts. He immediately made an impact as the NFL Rookie of the Year and The Sporting News NFC Rookie of the Year in his debut season. Over his career, he achieved consecutive 30-touchdown passing seasons in 1980 and 1981, becoming one of only ten quarterbacks in history to do so. During this peak period, he earned Pro Bowl nods after both campaigns and was named 2nd Team All-NFC following the 1980 season. He also established a record for five consecutive home games with at least three touchdown passes, a mark that stood until Peyton Manning surpassed it in 2004.

In Their Own Story

The trajectory of Bartkowski's career shifted dramatically starting in 1984. He began the season as the starter but suffered an injury late in the year and was replaced by Mike Moroski. The following year, he started the first five games of 1985, but an 0–5 record led to his benching for David Archer. After being placed on injured reserve before the eighth game, he was released in November. He quickly signed a two-week contract with the Washington Redskins on December 12, 1985, serving as an emergency third-string quarterback due to starter Jay Schroeder's fractured rib. His final stop came in 1986 when the Los Angeles Rams signed him after Dieter Brock suffered a career-ending injury. Bartkowski started six of the first seven games for a 4–2 team but lost his job to Steve Dils and eventually retired after that season.

Reader's Guide

Fans looking back at Bartkowski's era should note his specific accolades and records rather than generic praise. He was selected by the Falcons with the very first overall pick of the 1975 NFL draft, following his consensus All-American senior year at Cal where he led the nation in passing with 2,580 yards, 12 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. Beyond football, he was also an All-American baseball player at first base for the Bears. His NFL statistics include leading the league in passer rating (97.6) in 1983. He spent his entire prime with Atlanta before moving to Washington and Los Angeles. In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame on May 19, 2007, the National Polish American Sports Hall of Fame in 1993, and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012.

Did You Know?

• Bartkowski was the first client of sports agent Leigh Steinberg.
• He led the nation in passing as a senior at Cal in 1974, throwing for 2,580 yards and 12 touchdowns.
• His record of five consecutive home games with at least three touchdown passes stood until Peyton Manning broke it in 2004.
• He was an All-American baseball player at first base while playing college football.
• Bartkowski signed a two-week emergency contract with the Washington Redskins on December 12, 1985.