Terry Bradshaw previously revealed the precise moment he realised his illustrious football career was over. The 76-year-old is now a much-loved member of the FOX NFL team, a role he’s had for more than 30 years.
But, before becoming a familiar face on television, Bradshaw had an impressive Hall of Fame career in the NFL, particularly as the star quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. During his 14 seasons with the team, he led them to four Super Bowl victories in 1974, 1975, 1978, and 1979.
During that time he earned a reputation as one of the fiercest competitors with one of the most powerful arms in the history of the league. However, his career came to an abrupt end after one game in 1983.
On December 10, 1983, during a match against the New York Jets, Bradshaw threw what would be his final pass – a 10-yard touchdown in the second quarter. He felt a pop in his elbow, which he later identified as the signal that it was time to retire – a decision he made immediately after the game.
Reflecting on the incident in the Fox studio September 2023, Bradshaw recalled: “I was playing the Jets in New York. I rolled to the right and I had a little receiver named Gregg Garrity, he went into the post and, as I was scrambling, I looked and saw him coming loose. I turned and fired that football, and snapped that ligament in my elbow.
“I just went to the sideline and Tony Parisi, our equipment guy, came over because I had an elbow injury earlier in my career. I said to him, ‘I’m finished, it’s gone’. And it was. But when I knew it was over, it was okay! It was like, I can’t play anymore so it’s okay,” reports the Irish Star.
After hanging up his cleats in July 1984, Bradshaw rapidly transitioned to a broadcasting role with CBS, before moving to FOX. His charismatic presence has enlivened the FOX NFL Sunday panel for over 30 years with his unique blend of humour and insight.
However, doubt now looms over Bradshaws tenure as a notable uptick in on-air gaffes threatens his future with the show. This season alone has witnessed a series of blunders, including misidentifying fellow FOX NFL team member Rob Gronkowski as a temporary analyst, despite Gronkowski being a permanent fixture on the squad.
During a highlight reel for week seven’s matchups, Bradshaw prematurely discussed Nick Chubb’s game before the broadcast even switched from the ongoing Buffalo Bills vs. Tennessee Titans coverage. For now at least, Bradshaw remains a pivotol member of the FOX NFL team, even if some fans have called on him to go.
