She inspires me daily in ways that no one ever has before. It was through those disappointments, however, that led to me transfer into UCLA. Then of course there was Jimmy. I really felt was Troy's drive, along with coach Jimmy Johnson's leadership, that had accounted for that worst to first you just saw on the screen. I thank both of you for all the support and love you've shown me through the years. [1st] Most Touchdowns Passing, Game, Rookie - 4 (vs. L.A. Rams, Dec. 3, 1989) During that 10 year era, Troy was the winningest quarterback in the National Football League. [2nd] Most Consecutive Passes Attempted, None Intercepted - 184 (1995) I wouldn't be here without you. Rhonda, you're a wonderful mother, an example to our three daughters, Rachel, Jordan, and Alex. That season also marked the end of Dallas' odyssey from worst to first. It's said you're judged by the company you keep. Since that time I've not met a finer, more trustworthy person. I'm also honored to have Norv Turner here today as my presenter. [1st] Lowest Percentage Passes Intercepted, Season - 1.53 (1993) My mother, Charlynn sacrificed so much for myself and my two sisters, shuttling us to practices, attending our games, fixing meals, keeping our uniforms clean, and basically always being there for us whenever we needed her, regardless of whatever else might have been occupying her time at the moment. Anyway, Bill Holt in Henrietta taught me about the sacrifices that must be made to excel. If that's true, I'm in great standing today. Coach Donahue represented UCLA with class and integrity and was a great example for the young men that he coached. In addition to great coaching and ownership, I had the pleasure with playing with a very gifted and special group of players. Ernie couldn't be with us today. Troy Aikman's Oklahoma Hall of Fame speech (2010-08-04) 6,026 views Dec 6, 2017 42 Dislike Share Save The Oklahoman Video Archive 8.33K subscribers The former Henryetta and Dallas Cowboys. An All-America at UCLA, Aikman joined the Dallas Cowboys as the first overall pick in the 1989 NFL Draft. The first is Leigh Steinberg. Indianapolis only put up three points over the game's first two quarters. Norv was right. I always took great pride in being a part of the triplets with Michael and Emmitt. He was named the game's Most Valuable Player. The interviewer politely asked me why. . When I was a kid, all I ever wanted to be was a professional athlete. Passing Touchdown Leader: 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 1997 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year If that's true, I'm in great standing today. He meant that much to my career and to the Dallas Cowboys. For as long as I can remember, all I ever wanted was to play pro sports. Super Bowls I didn't seek it, and yet I'm here. [1st] Highest Passing Attempts/Sack Ratio, Career - 19.2 Click to go to the page with all the answers to 7 little words January 17 2023. I really felt was Troy's drive, along with coach Jimmy Johnson's leadership, that had accounted for that worst to first you just saw on the screen. Jimmy insisted on it. In 2006, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. [2nd] Highest Pass Completion Percentage, Game - 85.7 (at Atlanta, Dec. 21, 1992) Copyright UCLA Athletics. Troy hit him right between the numbers. What struck me most about Jimmy was his fearlessness. All-NFC Second Team: 1994 (UPI) 1995 (UPI), (6) - 1992, 1993, 1994*, 1995, 1996*, 1997*, At time of his retirement following 2000 season "Why did they throw the ball in that situation? [3rd] Highest Passing Attempts/Sack Ratio, Season - 26.8 (1996) I don't want to say I was surprised. Jimmy insisted on it. [3rd] Most Passing Yards Gained, Season - 3,445 (1992) [3rd] Highest Pass Completion Percentage, Game - 80.8 (at N.Y. Giants, Sept. 30, 1990) Troy's greater strength as a player was his ability to focus and stay focused in the most unusual circumstances. [2nd] Most Passing Attempts, No Interceptions, Game - 33 (vs. Green Bay, Jan. 14, 1996) Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com. Following high school, I attended Oklahoma University and was coached by one of the winningest coaches in college football history, Barry Switzer. Although my time at Oklahoma was brief, it was there that I first learned how difficult playing the quarterback position could be. [1st] Most Consecutive Games, Touchdown Pass - 5 (1992-1993, 1994-1995) [3rd] Most Pass Completions, Game - 28 (vs. Green Bay, Jan. 16, 1994) If that's true, I'm in great standing today. [Tied for 2nd] Most Times Sacked, Game - 11 (vs. Philadelphia, Sept. 15, 1991), [1st] Highest Completion Percentage, Career - 70.0 Aikman's 22 of 30 for 273 yards passing and four touchdowns earned him Super Bowl MVP honors. Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions. We could have given it to Emmitt?". Full Name: Troy Kenneth Aikman. Reggie, Warren, Harry, Rayfield, and John represented the game with class, just as Lesley Visser, the first female recipient of the Pete Rozelle Award, brought respect and professionalism to the field of journalism for her work in print and broadcasting. Charles Haley, no one came more prepared to play or played harder on game day than Charles did. Although it wasn't one that allowed me to put up big numbers, that was fine. [2nd] Most Pass Completions, Game - 30 (at San Francisco, Jan. 15, 1995) [Tied for 1st] Most Consecutive Games, Four or More Touchdowns Passes - 1 (at Washington, Sept. 12, 1999) I remember after the workout calling my good friend and coach Ernie Zampese. I thank all of you. It's an honor to be a member of a Hall of Fame induction class that includes five men for whom I have such admiration and respect. [Tied for 3rd] Most Touchdown Passes, Game - 4 (SB XXVII, vs. Buffalo), [2nd] Longest Pass Completion - 94 (to Alvin Harper, vs. Green Bay, 1994) [3rd] Highest Pass Completion Percentage, Game - 73.33 (SB XXVII, vs. Buffalo) [1st] Most Consecutive Passes Attempted, None Intercepted - 216 (1999) He also rushed three times for 28 yards and recovered his own fumble. He would often tell me and the team, Things are never as good as you think they are or ever as bad as you think they are. Sound advice that I would have to remind myself of often during my early years in Dallas. At a time when coaches are guarded about getting too close to their players, Norv proved you could be both a great coach and a great friend. I am humbled to be welcomed to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and I thank you. [1st] Most Pass Completions, Career - 320 Alvin Harper ran a slant. Leigh was my agent throughout my career. Troy Aikman: I was also lucky to grow up with two terrific sisters, at least most of the time (smiling). The past eight years have been without question the best years of my life. The first is Leigh Steinberg. Your friendship and support means so much to me as it did throughout my career. I didn't seek it, and yet I'm here. 2023 Pro Football Hall of Fame All Rights Reserved. I feel privileged to present Troy today. You also have those "why's." [2nd] Lowest Percentage Passes Intercepted, Season - 1.59 (1998) My intensity on the field was a reflection of you and your impact on my athletic career was greater than you'll ever know. I was also lucky to grow up with two terrific sisters, at least most of the time (smiling). Rhonda, you're a wonderful mother, an example to our three daughters, Rachel, Jordan, and Alex. I would have loved to have had any one of them on my team. My wife, Rhonda, is my best friend. [Tied for 1st] Most Times Sacked, Game - 11 (vs. Philadelphia, Sept. 15, 1991) As talented as all of these players were, however, they were even better teammates. Norv was right. I said, because I want to win. The first is Leigh Steinberg. [1st] Most Pass Completions, Career - 2,898 I remember it like it was yesterday, the first time I met Troy Aikman. Mom, you're an amazing woman. NFL broadcaster Troy Aikman was not pleased with the Indianapolis Colts' display of inept offense during Monday night's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Troy had the ability to make the play when it mattered the most. During the broadcast, the Hall of Famer described the Colts' offense as "pretty dreadful.". I, too, am saddened by the absence of Reggie White, an amazing player and even better man who left us far too soon. Troy Kenneth Aikman (born November 21, 1966) is an American former football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 12 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. I was also lucky to grow up with two terrific sisters, at least most of the time (smiling). I said, because I want to win. There were no "if's." Warren Moon, Reggie White, Harry Carson and Rayfield Wright played the game the way it should be played. Troy's teammates would tell you he was a leader of those great Dallas teams of the '90s. I joked to Troy, We've got to get you to get rid of that ball a little quicker. He'd say this when times were tough, maybe we'd lost a close game, I'd thrown the deciding interception or the grind and the rigors of the season were beginning to take their toll on me. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, I'm also very grateful to my family. [3rd] Most Games, Four of More Touchdowns Passes, Career - 3 This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Sometimes that meant passing the ball, sometimes it meant handing it off. You taught me about discipline, toughness, and life's most important lesson: To never quit. [1st] Most Passing Yards Gained, Game - 380 (at San Francisco, Jan. 15, 1995) Mark Tuinei, Nate Newton, Mark Stepnoski, John Gesek, Eric Williams, Larry Allen, and Kevin Gogan. We had a good system in Dallas. Few have had the great release, the unbelievable arm strength, and incredible accuracy of Troy Aikman. We could have given it to Emmitt?". After transferring from Oklahoma, he played college football at UCLA, where he won the Davey O'Brien Award as a senior. [2nd] Most Consecutive Passes Completed - 13 (at Atlanta, Dec. 21, 1992; at Oakland, Nov. 19, 1995; at Arizona, Nov. 15, 1998) As talented as all of these players were, however, they were even better teammates. He knew the things he had to do to give his team the best chance to win. Presenter: Norv Turner, Former Dallas Cowboys assistant coach and longtime NFL head coach You taught me about discipline, toughness, and life's most important lesson: To never quit. Aikman's 22 of 30 for 273 yards passing and four touchdowns earned him Super Bowl MVP honors. I . What fans saw on Sundays, his teammates saw every day of the week. Super Bowls were more important than statistics. [1st] Most Touchdowns Passing, Game, Rookie - 4 (vs. L.A. Rams, Dec. 3, 1989) [Tied for 1st] Most Touchdowns Passing, Game - 5 (at Washington, Sept. 12, 1999) [Tied for 2nd] Most Consecutive Completions, Game - 10 (SB XXX, vs. Pittsburgh) It was very difficult coaching against Troy and the Cowboys the next seven years. Uniform Number: 8. When defenses focused on Irvin and/or Smith, Aikman would find tight end Jay Novacek or wide receiver Alvin Harper. Ernie, I say thank you for everything. Fox News Flash top sports headlines for November 29. Ernie, I say thank you for everything. It's an honor to be a member of a Hall of Fame induction class that includes five men for whom I have such admiration and respect. Enter and space open menus and escape closes them as well. Troy was driven to be the best, and he expected the same from everyone around him. Reggie, Warren, Harry, Rayfield, and John represented the game with class, just as Lesley Visser, the first female recipient of the Pete Rozelle Award, brought respect and professionalism to the field of journalism for her work in print and broadcasting. Other Members of Class of 2006: Harry Carson, John Madden, Warren Moon, Reggie White, Rayfield Wright, Drafted: 1st round (1st player overall) in 1989 by Dallas Cowboys During that time we became great friends and won two Super Bowls. I really felt was Troy's drive, along with coach Jimmy Johnson's leadership, that had accounted for that worst to first you just saw on the screen. You taught me about discipline, toughness, and life's most important lesson: To never quit. Thank you for the hospitality and thank you for the courtesy you've shown me and my family. It was a thrill for me to coach him three years in Dallas. Troy was consistently the most accurate passer I've ever seen. [2nd] Most Passing Attempts, Season - 518 (1997) I am humbled to be welcomed to the Pro Football Hall of Fame and I thank you. Quarterback Troy Aikman finished his collegiate career as the third rated passer in NCAA history. Michael Irvin, whose work ethic was second to none, was one of the most special teammates I've ever had the opportunity to play with. [1st] Most Seasons, 3,000 or More Passing Yards - 5 (1992-93, 1995-97) [1st] Most Passing Attempts, Rookie Season - 293 (1989) Although my time at Oklahoma was brief, it was there that I first learned how difficult playing the quarterback position could be. If that's true, I'm in great standing today. During that time we became great friends and won two Super Bowls. I certainly would not be here without you. Jimmy always played to win. Troy established many school records including 24 touchdown passes in a season, 228 completions in a season and 32 completions in a game. During that span, the All-American led the Bruins to a 20-4 record. Some coaches play not to lose. My wife, Rhonda, is my best friend. [Tied for 1st] Most Touchdowns Passing, Game - 5 (at Washington, Sept. 12, 1999) Ernie couldn't be with us today. Mario Orasco, Rod Davis, Manny DeSalvo taught me the fundamentals of the game and what it meant to be a good sport. Jimmy Johnson and I arrived in Dallas the same year, 1989, both fresh from college, both eager to prove ourselves. Another one of Troy's real strengths was his ability to bring out the best in everyone around him. I remember it like it was yesterday, the first time I met Troy Aikman. The second person is my long time business advisor, Mark Grigg. I played professional football. (Scott Galvin/USA Today Sports). Of all those years, Norv and I were together for only three. Dad, you were right. [Tied for 1st] Most Touchdowns Passing, Game - 4 (SB XXVII, vs. Buffalo) I've known Mark since I was 22 years old. I'd also like to say that the people in Canton, Ohio, have been absolutely terrific. 8, Troy Aikman. Troy hit him right between the numbers. I started playing football at the age of seven and retired when I was 34. Now it's time to pass on to the other puzzles. Although he showed great promise and threw for a rookie-record 379 yards in a game against the Phoenix Cardinals, the team finished 1-15. I know a lot of you have come to watch other inductees and have reason to leave, but you stuck it out, and I appreciate that very much. Ernie Zampese, my offensive coordinator in Dallas for four years, including when we won Super Bowl XXX. Joe has been a great friend to me and my family for many years. He became the first Dallas rookie quarterback to start a season opener since Roger Staubach in 1969. That I was able to do so with so many great players and coaches and win three World Championships and wind up here today with all these great men in gold jackets, well, it's almost too much to believe. All-NFC Second Team: 1994 (UPI) 1995 (UPI), (6) - 1992, 1993, 1994*, 1995, 1996*, 1997*, At time of his retirement following 2000 season There are two other people that deserve mention. In 1990, Aikman completed 226 of 399 passes for 2,579 yards and 11 touchdowns - the team finished 7-9. Terri and Tami were pretty good athletes themselves. "Why did they throw the ball in that situation? AboutPressCopyrightContact. Norv Turner (presenter): I don't anticipate missing many Hall of Fame weekends. He meant that much to my career and to the Dallas Cowboys. It was great for me to watch Troy grow as a player, but more than that it was a thrill to watch him grow as a man. [1st] Highest Pass Completion Percentage, Game - 76.67 (vs. Green Bay, Jan. 8, 1995) That I was able to do so with so many great players and coaches and win three World Championships and wind up here today with all these great men in gold jackets, well, it's almost too much to believe. They all made significant contributions to their teams, and that's why they're here. A couple years ago during an interview, I was asked, if I got to coach one game, who would I choose as my starting quarterback. Thank you very much. Today Troy is being honored as one of the greatest players ever. [1st] Most Passing Yards Gained, Career - 3,849 Super Bowl XXVII MVP, Elected to Pro Football Hall of Fame: February 4, 2006, Enshrined into Pro Football Hall of Fame: August 5,2006 There's now a new team of Aikman women in my life. And I thank him for having the biggest single influence on my career. He completed 22 of 30 passes for 273 yards and four touchdowns. Troy Aikman (@TroyAikman) August 5, 2018 Aikman, who is an NFL analyst for FOX Sports showed the greatest respect for Kramer as he told him he would have loved to have him as a teammate. Leigh was my agent throughout my career. She inspires me daily in ways that no one ever has before. In an era of super egos, he never let his get in the way of winning. [1st] Lowest Percentage Passes Intercepted, Rookie Season - 6.14 (1989) Norv was my coach for three years. [3rd] Most Pass Completions, Season - 296 (1996) Joe Buck's TV partner Troy. There are two other people that deserve mention. Troy, were you surprised to be inducted into the Hall of Fame your first year on the ballot? Since that time I've not met a finer, more trustworthy person. [2nd] Most Passes Intercepted, Career - 17 I always took great pride in being a part of the triplets with Michael and Emmitt. troy aikman hall of fame speechfrankie ryan city on a hill dead. Following high school, I attended Oklahoma University and was coached by one of the winningest coaches in college football history, Barry Switzer. If you look at Troy's greatest plays, they came in the most critical situations. Jason Garrett, my confidant and greatest ally on the field and quarterback meetings for the majority of my career. You've always given more than you've gotten, yet I don't think you'd have it any other way. [1st] Most Passing Yards Gained, Game, Rookie Season - 379 (at Phoenix, Nov. 12, 1989) I know it's hot. [1st] Most Passing Yards Gained, Career - 3,849 Ernie, I say thank you for everything. Legal Statement. I enjoyed the best seat in the house as I watched Emmitt Smith run his way to the NFL's all time rushing record. It was through those disappointments, however, that led to me transfer into UCLA. [1st] Most Pass Completions, Game - 34 (at N.Y. Giants, Oct. 5, 1997; vs. Minnesota, Nov. 26, 1998) [2nd] Passer Highest Rating, Season - 99.0 (1993) Sometimes we have to remind ourselves that these are the jobs we've always dreamed of having. [2nd] Highest Pass Completion Percentage, Season - 65.3 (1991) Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman presents former NFL head coach Jimmy Johnson during the 2020 HOF enshrinement ceremony. I know it's been a long day. I remember after the workout calling my good friend and coach Ernie Zampese. Dell Hellestrae, not only was he the best long snapper in the league, but he also proved to be a great listener to my many frustrations on a many a Saturday night. Joe has been a great friend to me and my family for many years. Troy is one of the most unselfish players to have played. Troy hit him right between the numbers. I was always proud to have him as well as Jeff Moorehead represent me during contract negotiations. Troy came to that huddle with those big blue eyes and he looked up and he said, Hey, I'm coming to you no matter what. [3rd] Most Passing Attempts, No Interceptions, Game - 30 (SB XXVII, vs. Buffalo), Team Statistical Championships Yet there's no doubt in my mind that if Norv Turner had not entered my life, I wouldn't be joining these men in the Pro Football Hall of Fame today. [1st] Highest Pass Completion Percentage, Season - 69.1 (1993) Football is a great game that has afforded me many things and provided much happiness. Warren Moon, Reggie White, Harry Carson and Rayfield Wright played the game the way it should be played. [1st] Highest Pass Completion Percentage, Career - 63.75 I'd also like to thank the many friends, family and fans who have traveled great distances to share this moment with me today. Of all those years, Norv and I were together for only three. COLTS' JEFF SATURDAY EXPLAINS REFUSAL TO USE TIMEOUTS ON FINAL DRIVE: 'FELT LIKE WE HAD TIME'. We could have given it to Emmitt?". [1st] Highest Passer Rating, Rookie Season - 55.7 (1989) Thank you very much. There were no "if's." [3rd] Highest Passing Attempts/Sack Ratio, Season - 26.8 (1996) Hall of Famer Troy Aikman breaks down why Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers shouldn't be taken lightly against his Dallas Cowboys [1st] Most Passing Yards Gained, Game, Rookie Season - 379 (at Phoenix, Nov. 12, 1989) Thank you. Troy had the ability to make the play when it mattered the most. [1st] Most Touchdowns Passing, Rookie Season - 9 (1989) Since I didn't have a brother, they were the ones who satisfied my need to get better by playing catch, running routes, rebounding baskets, and doing pretty much everything else little brother needed. If you look at his greatest games, they came against the best teams and they came in the playoffs. You also have those "why's." He knew the things he had to do to give his team the best chance to win. Quarterback Troy Aikman finished his collegiate career as the third rated passer in NCAA history. I further explained my answer. Passing Titles: 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 19994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 My mother, Charlynn sacrificed so much for myself and my two sisters, shuttling us to practices, attending our games, fixing meals, keeping our uniforms clean, and basically always being there for us whenever we needed her, regardless of whatever else might have been occupying her time at the moment. Hall of Fame Dallas Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman joined Bill Coates on Radio Row at Super Bowl XLVII to talk about combating counterfeit NFL game tickets, the Dallas Cowboys, the status. [2nd] Most Pass Completions, Season - 302 (1992) He didn't laugh. I was also protected for many years by one of the best offensive lines of all time. [1st] Most Passing Yards Gained, Rookie Season - 1,749 (1989) Yet it's our friendship that is most special because it has endured long after he stopped coaching me in Dallas. My mother, Charlynn sacrificed so much for myself and my two sisters, shuttling us to practices, attending our games, fixing meals, keeping our uniforms clean, and basically always being there for us whenever we needed her, regardless of whatever else might have been occupying her time at the moment. There's now a new team of Aikman women in my life. Left and right arrows move across top level links and expand / close menus in sub levels. There were so many other special players that I had a chance to play with, guys such as Jay Novacek, the irreplaceable and unsung hero of our franchise, Daryl "Moose" Johnston, the blue collar guy who I'm not ashamed to say was better at his job than any other player on the team was theirs, including myself. Sometimes that meant passing the ball, sometimes it meant handing it off. Thank you very much. Troy was consistently the most accurate passer I've ever seen. I think Reggie got in on that one also. He's the big brother I never had. [Tied for 2nd] Most Completions, Game - 33 (at Miami, Oct. 27, 1996) [1st] Highest Pass Completion Percentage, Rookie Season - 52.9 (1989) Stubhub"/StubHub Ticket Market Place. [3rd] Highest Passer Rating, Career - 81.62 And I thank him for having the biggest single influence on my career. Michael Irvin, whose work ethic was second to none, was one of the most special teammates I've ever had the opportunity to play with. 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