Two Black captains capture the spotlight
Super Bowl 57 is set to make history as it will be the first time two black starting quarterbacks will face off in the NFL’s biggest game. Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs will lead his team against Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles on Feb. 12. This landmark moment in American football is a testament to the progress that has been made in the NFL over the years, especially in terms of diversity and inclusivity.
The NFL has come a long way since its inception, and the integration of black players into the league has been a slow but steady process. It was not until the 1950s that black players were given the chance to play in the NFL, and even then, they faced discrimination and were relegated to certain positions. White players dominated positions that were considered to be more cerebral, while black players were often limited to positions that were deemed to be more physical. However, this started to change in the late 1980s, when black players became more prominent in the NFL.
First in the league
The first black quarterback to play in the Super Bowl was Doug Williams in 1988, who led the Washington franchise (now the Washington Commanders) to victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXII. This was a historic moment, and it was not until 2014 when Russell Wilson became the next black quarterback to win a Super Bowl. The gap of more than 25 years between these two moments highlights the slow progress that has been made in the NFL, but also the determination and talent of black quarterbacks who have overcome obstacles and made their mark on the sport.
Mahomes and Hurts are two of the most talented quarterbacks in the NFL today, and their presence in the Super Bowl is a testament to the progress that has been made in the NFL. They are both finalists for the Associated Press Most Valuable Player award, Mahomes is expected to win.
No matter what, history will be made
As far as black quarterbacks are concerned, the 2022 season was already historic, with just under half of the 32 NFL teams starting a black quarterback at In total, 21 black quarterbacks threw at least one pass during the season.
Super Bowl LVII matchup between the Chiefs and the Eagles will be a historic one for the league’s history, as well, as black history in general.
Having two black quarterbacks starting in the Super Bowl highlights the progress made in the NFL over the years, as well as the talent and determination of black quarterbacks who have overcame obstacles to make their mark. Regardless of who wins, this Super Bowl will make history, and it will be a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
This Sunday’s kickoff,will be a moment that will endure for years to come, regardless of who wins the Game.
