Midlife Crisis

Over the last 30 years 13 starting quarterbacks—including Minnesota's Warren Moon this year—have begun a season after their 38th birthday. And only one of them, Denver's Craig Morton, had what could be considered a very good season, in 1981, finishing up with a 90.5 rating. More often in recent history the age of 38 has been a line of demarcation. John Brodie, Fran Tarkenton and Joe Montana each began his last season at that age. With his aching right shoulder Moon may not have much left after this year. Comparing Moon with Tarkenton, the Viking quarterback of nearly a generation ago, is instructive because both players were prolific well into their 30's, both played in passing-friendly offenses, and both got knocked for never winning the Big One.

[This article contains a table. Please see hardcopy of magazine or PDF.]