Kurt Warner's First Start (1998)

Lore & Background

Warner went undrafted in 1994, spent time with the Green Bay Packers in training camp, then played for the Iowa Barnstormers of the Arena Football League. He signed with the St. Louis Rams in 1997 and was allocated to NFL Europe's Amsterdam Admirals in 1998. He spent the 1998 season as the Rams' third-string quarterback, completing 4 of 11 passes for 39 yards.

In Their Own Story

The Arizona sun beat down on Sun Devil Stadium as Warner adjusted his gloves, the weight of the city's hope resting on his shoulders. He looked out at the field, not seeing a daunting Vikings defense, but the same gridiron he had practiced on in solitude for years. The first snap felt different; the noise was louder, the stakes higher. As he dropped back and spotted an opening downfield, time seemed to slow. With a release that defied his background, he launched the ball into the end zone, proving that destiny could indeed be found in the most unexpected places.

Reader's Guide

Warner's first NFL start came in 1999 after Trent Green suffered a torn ACL. He led the Rams to a Super Bowl XXXIV victory, earning both NFL MVP and Super Bowl MVP honors. He later revitalized his career with the Arizona Cardinals, leading them to Super Bowl XLIII.

Did You Know?

• Warner is the only undrafted player to be named NFL MVP and Super Bowl MVP.
• He is the only undrafted quarterback to lead his team to a Super Bowl victory.
• Warner is the only player inducted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Arena Football Hall of Fame.