Redskins sign QB Jeff Hostetler
Posted: Wed July 9, 1997 at 10:14 a.m EDT
One day after being released by the Oakland Raiders, veteran
quarterback Jeff Hostetler today signed on with the Washington
Redskins to become Gus Frerotte's backup.
Hostetler appeared in 13 games in 1996, completing 242-of-402
passes (60.2 percent) for 2,548 yards with 23 touchdowns and 14
interceptions. But the Raiders went 7-9, tying Seattle for last
place in the AFC West and failing to make the playoffs for the
third straight season.
The Redskins have been searching for a backup to Frerotte since
giving up on and dealing Heath Shuler to New Orleans in April.
"Jeff provides experience behind Gus Frerotte," said Redskins
coach Norv Turner. "He's a talented and accurate passer that
has played in big games."
Hostetler began his career with the New York Giants from 1984-92
before signing as an unrestricted free agent with Oakland in
1993. His career totals are 1,278-of-2,193 for 15,531 yards, 89
touchdowns and 61 interceptions. He is also one of the better
scrambling quarterbacks, as reflected by his 1,393 career
rushing yards.
His best moment came after the 1990 season, when he stepped in
for an injured Phil Simms and later led the Giants to an
unlikely 15-13 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC
Championship Game and a 20-19 upset of the Buffalo Bills in
Super Bowl XXV.
Hostetler wasn't needed in Oakland anymore since the team signed
free agent Jeff George on February 15th.
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