Cris Collinsworth's Illustrious NFL Career: A Legacy Of Excellence

Cris Collinsworth's NFL career was marked by outstanding achievements and significant contributions to the sport. As a wide receiver, he showcased exceptional skills on the field, leaving a lasting impact on the game.

Collinsworth's journey began when he was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1981. Throughout his eight seasons with the team, he established himself as a reliable target, amassing 417 receptions for 6,698 yards and 36 touchdowns. His impressive performances earned him three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors.

In 1989, Collinsworth joined the New York Giants, where he continued to shine. He played a crucial role in the team's Super Bowl XXV victory over the Buffalo Bills, catching four passes for 107 yards, including a 33-yard touchdown reception. This triumph marked a significant milestone in his career.

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Collinsworth is also recognized for his insightful commentary as a sportscaster. Since 2009, he has served as a color commentator for NBC's Sunday Night Football, providing expert analysis and engaging insights to.

Cris Collinsworth stands as one of the most respected and well-regarded figures in the NFL. His exceptional talent as a wide receiver and his contributions to the game have left an enduring legacy. His transition to sportscasting has further solidified his status as a prominent voice in the world of football.

Cris Collinsworth NFL Career

Cris Collinsworth's NFL career was marked by several key aspects that contributed to his success and legacy in the sport:

• Wide Receiver
• Cincinnati Bengals
• New York Giants
• Pro Bowl
• All-Pro
• Super Bowl XXV
• Broadcaster

Collinsworth's exceptional skills as a wide receiver were evident throughout his career. He possessed great hands, precise route running, and the ability to make difficult catches. His contributions to the Cincinnati Bengals and New York Giants were significant, as he helped both teams achieve success on the field.

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Collinsworth's impact on the NFL extended to his role as a broadcaster. His insightful commentary and analysis have made him one of the most respected voices in the sport. He has played a key role in bringing the game to life for millions of fans.

In conclusion, Cris Collinsworth's NFL career was defined by his exceptional talent, dedication, and contributions both on and off the field. His achievements as a wide receiver, his success with the Bengals and Giants, and his transition to broadcasting have left a lasting legacy in the sport.

1. Wide Receiver

The position of Wide Receiver played a central role in Cris Collinsworth's NFL career and significantly influenced his achievements and legacy in the sport.

• Field Position and Responsibilities
  

  As a wide receiver, Collinsworth was responsible for lining up wide on the field and running specific routes to create separation from defenders. His primary task was to catch passes from the quarterback and advance the ball down the field.

• Exceptional Skills
  

  Collinsworth possessed exceptional skills as a wide receiver, including great hands, precise route running, and the ability to make difficult catches. These abilities allowed him to be a reliable target and a valuable asset to his teams.

• Contributions to Team Success
  

  Collinsworth's contributions as a wide receiver were significant for both the Cincinnati Bengals and New York Giants. He helped both teams achieve success on the field, including the Giants' victory in Super Bowl XXV.

• Legacy and Impact
  

  Collinsworth's success as a wide receiver has left a lasting legacy in the NFL. He is remembered as one of the most talented and respected players at his position, and his accomplishments continue to inspire aspiring wide receivers.

In conclusion, the position of Wide Receiver was integral to Cris Collinsworth's NFL career. His exceptional skills, contributions to team success, and lasting legacy have solidified his status as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history.

2. Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals played a pivotal role in Cris Collinsworth's NFL career and shaped his journey as a professional football player.

Draft and Early Career:
Collinsworth was drafted by the Bengals in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a reliable target and a key contributor to the team's offense. During his eight seasons in Cincinnati, he amassed 417 receptions for 6,698 yards and 36 touchdowns.

Team Success:
Collinsworth's contributions were instrumental in the Bengals' success during his tenure. The team reached the Super Bowl twice, in 1981 and 1988, although they ultimately fell short of winning the championship. Collinsworth's consistent performances and leadership on the field were crucial to the team's achievements.

Legacy and Impact:
Collinsworth's time with the Bengals left a lasting legacy on the franchise and the city of Cincinnati. He is remembered as one of the most talented and respected players in Bengals history. His jersey number, 80, was retired by the team in 2016, a testament to his impact on the organization.

In conclusion, the Cincinnati Bengals were an integral part of Cris Collinsworth's NFL career. His eight seasons with the team helped establish him as a star wide receiver and a key contributor to their success. The connection between Collinsworth and the Bengals remains strong, with his legacy continuing to inspire future generations of players and fans.

3. New York Giants

The New York Giants played a significant role in Cris Collinsworth's NFL career, marking a pivotal chapter in his journey as a professional football player.

• Arrival and Impact:
  Collinsworth joined the Giants in 1989, bringing his experience and talent to a team with Super Bowl aspirations. He quickly became a key target for quarterback Phil Simms, forming a formidable connection that would lead to success.
• Super Bowl XXV Triumph:
  The highlight of Collinsworth's tenure with the Giants came in Super Bowl XXV. He played a crucial role in the team's victory over the Buffalo Bills, catching four passes for 107 yards, including a 33-yard touchdown reception. This triumph marked a significant milestone in his career and cemented his legacy as a championship-caliber player.
• Leadership and Mentorship:
  Beyond his on-field contributions, Collinsworth also served as a leader and mentor to younger players on the Giants. His experience and knowledge helped guide the team's wide receivers and contributed to their overall success.

In conclusion, the New York Giants were an integral part of Cris Collinsworth's NFL career. His arrival in 1989 marked a new chapter, leading to Super Bowl glory and a lasting impact on the franchise. Collinsworth's leadership and contributions left a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of players.

4. Pro Bowl

The Pro Bowl holds a significant place in Cris Collinsworth's NFL career, recognizing his outstanding achievements and contributions to the sport.

• Recognition of Excellence
  

  The Pro Bowl is an annual all-star game that showcases the most talented players in the NFL. Collinsworth's selection to three Pro Bowls (1981, 1983, 1985) is a testament to his exceptional skills and consistent performance at the highest level.

• Elite Status
  

  Being named to the Pro Bowl is a mark of distinction, reserved for players who demonstrate exceptional ability and dominance at their respective positions. Collinsworth's three Pro Bowl selections place him among the elite wide receivers of his era.

• Fan Appreciation
  

  The Pro Bowl is also a celebration of the sport and an opportunity for fans to witness the extraordinary talents of the NFL's best players. Collinsworth's participation in the Pro Bowl gave fans a chance to appreciate his remarkable skills and athleticism.

• Legacy and Impact
  

  Collinsworth's Pro Bowl appearances have solidified his legacy as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history. His selection to the Pro Bowl three times is a testament to his sustained excellence and the impact he had on the game.

In conclusion, the Pro Bowl played a significant role in Cris Collinsworth's NFL career, recognizing his exceptional talent, elite status, and lasting impact on the sport. His three Pro Bowl selections stand as a testament to his remarkable achievements and continue to inspire aspiring wide receivers.

5. All-Pro

The "All-Pro" designation holds a significant place in Cris Collinsworth's NFL career, recognizing his exceptional performance and contributions to the sport.

All-Pro teams are selected by various organizations, including the Associated Press (AP) and Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), to honor the best players at each position in the NFL. Collinsworth was named an All-Pro twice, in 1981 and 1983, by the AP.

Being named an All-Pro is a testament to Collinsworth's outstanding abilities as a wide receiver. It signifies that he was among the elite players at his position in the entire league. His All-Pro selections are a recognition of his exceptional route running, sure hands, and ability to make big plays.

Collinsworth's All-Pro honors further solidified his legacy as one of the greatest wide receivers of his era. They stand as a symbol of his consistent performance and impact on the game. His achievements continue to inspire aspiring wide receivers and serve as a benchmark for excellence at the position.

6. Super Bowl XXV

Super Bowl XXV holds a significant place in Cris Collinsworth's NFL career, marking a pivotal moment in his journey and leaving a lasting legacy on the sport.

• Triumphant Performance
  

  In Super Bowl XXV, Collinsworth played a crucial role in the New York Giants' victory over the Buffalo Bills. He caught four passes for 107 yards, including a 33-yard touchdown reception, showcasing his exceptional skills and contributing significantly to the team's success.

• Championship Glory
  

  Winning Super Bowl XXV was a defining moment in Collinsworth's career. It marked the pinnacle of his achievements as a player, solidifying his status as a champion and etching his name in NFL history.

• Legacy and Recognition
  

  Collinsworth's performance in Super Bowl XXV further cemented his legacy as one of the greatest wide receivers of his era. His contributions to the Giants' victory earned him widespread recognition and solidified his place among the NFL's elite players.

• Inspiration and Impact
  

  Collinsworth's success in Super Bowl XXV continues to inspire aspiring wide receivers and players across the NFL. His performance serves as a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent required to reach the highest levels of the sport.

In conclusion, Super Bowl XXV played a pivotal role in Cris Collinsworth's NFL career, showcasing his exceptional abilities, contributing to a championship victory, and leaving a lasting legacy on the sport.

7. Broadcaster

Cris Collinsworth's transition from NFL player to broadcaster marked a significant chapter in his career. His insightful commentary and analysis have made him one of the most respected voices in the sport.

• Expert Analysis
  

  Collinsworth's deep understanding of the game, honed during his playing days, allows him to provide expert analysis and insights into the strategies, tactics, and key moments of each game.

• Clear Communication
  

  Collinsworth has a gift for communicating complex football concepts in a clear and engaging manner, making the game accessible to both casual and die-hard fans alike.

• Engaging Storytelling
  

  Beyond his analytical skills, Collinsworth is also a master storyteller. He weaves anecdotes and personal experiences into his commentary, bringing the game to life and connecting with viewers on an emotional level.

• Unbiased Perspective
  

  Collinsworth's objectivity and unbiased perspective are highly valued by viewers. He provides fair and balanced commentary, regardless of his personal allegiances or the teams involved.

Collinsworth's broadcasting career has extended his legacy beyond his playing days. He has become an influential voice in the NFL, providing insights and perspectives that have shaped the way fans understand and appreciate the game.

FAQs on Cris Collinsworth's NFL Career

This section addresses frequently asked questions about Cris Collinsworth's NFL career, providing concise and informative answers.

Question 1: How many Pro Bowl selections did Cris Collinsworth receive?

Answer: Cris Collinsworth was selected to the Pro Bowl three times, in 1981, 1983, and 1985, recognizing his exceptional performance as a wide receiver.

Question 2: Which NFL teams did Cris Collinsworth play for?

Answer: Collinsworth played for two NFL teams during his career: the Cincinnati Bengals from 1981 to 1988 and the New York Giants from 1989 to 1996.

Question 3: What was Cris Collinsworth's most significant achievement as a player?

Answer: Collinsworth's most significant achievement was winning Super Bowl XXV with the New York Giants in 1991, where he played a crucial role with four catches for 107 yards, including a 33-yard touchdown.

Question 4: When did Cris Collinsworth retire from playing football?

Answer: Collinsworth retired from the NFL after the 1996 season, ending a successful 16-year career.

Question 5: What is Cris Collinsworth known for outside of his playing career?

Answer: After retiring as a player, Collinsworth became a renowned sportscaster, known for his insightful commentary and analysis on NBC's Sunday Night Football.

Summary: Cris Collinsworth's NFL career was marked by outstanding achievements, including Pro Bowl selections, Super Bowl victory, and a successful transition to sportscasting.

Transition to the next section: Explore Cris Collinsworth's broadcasting career and legacy in the next section.

Cris Collinsworth

Cris Collinsworth's NFL career stands as a testament to exceptional talent, dedication, and unwavering passion for the sport. From his remarkable achievements as a wide receiver to his insightful contributions as a broadcaster, Collinsworth has left an enduring mark on the game of football.

His exceptional skills on the field, coupled with his keen understanding of the game's intricacies, have made him one of the most respected figures in the NFL. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring athletes and captivates football enthusiasts worldwide.