Jim Everett is an American former professional football quarterback best known for his career in the National Football League during the 1980s and early 1990s. He rose to national attention in college at Purdue University and later played for the Los Angeles Rams, New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, and Minnesota Vikings.
Although Everett did not achieve superstar status, he played ten NFL seasons and became a recognizable figure thanks to his strong throwing arm and memorable matchups. Understanding his journey helps explain how quarterbacks from smaller college programs could succeed in the modern NFL.
| Category | Detail | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | James Kenneth Everett | Personal identification |
| Position | Quarterback | Playing role |
| College | Purdue University | Amateur development |
| NFL Draft | 1986, 2nd round, 40th overall | Draft history |
| Career Length | 1986–1995 | Professional timeline |
Early Life and College Career at Purdue
High School Development
Jim Everett grew up in Akron, Ohio, where he starred in high school football and earned all-state honors. Coaches praised his poise under pressure and his ability to read defenses, traits that would define his later success.
Transition to Purdue
At Purdue, Everett became the starting quarterback and led the Boilermakers to competitive seasons in the Big Ten. His collegiate statistics showcased a powerful arm and consistent decision-making, drawing attention from professional scouts.
Professional NFL Playing Career
Los Angeles Rams Tenure
Everett began his NFL journey with the Los Angeles Rams, where he split time as a starter and backup. This period helped him develop his NFL timing and understand complex offensive schemes.
New Orleans Saints Impact
His most productive years came with the New Orleans Saints, where he threw for over 3,000 yards in a single season. He became a fan favorite in Louisiana for his toughness and competitive fire.
Career Statistics and Accomplishments
Passing Metrics
Over his ten seasons, Everett completed more than 1,500 passes for more than 16,000 yards and 94 touchdowns. He also recorded a respectable quarterback rating that placed him among solid mid-tier starters of his era.
Team Contributions
Everett helped several teams remain competitive during his career, providing veteran leadership and steady play. His experience in crucial moments made him a trusted option in close games.
| Team | Season | Games Started | Passing Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Rams | 1986–1990 | 46 | 8,334 | 51 |
| New Orleans Saints | 1991–1993 | 45 | 11,939 | 94 |
| Atlanta Falcons | 1994 | 2 | 236 | 7 |
| Minnesota Vikings | 1995 | 2 | 18 | 0 |
Life After Football and Public Profile
Broadcasting and Media
After retiring from the NFL, Jim Everett worked as a broadcaster and sports analyst. He shared his insights from the field and discussed the evolution of quarterback play in the league.
Community Involvement
Everett has remained active in charity work and public events, often focusing on youth sports and mentoring young athletes. His visibility has helped preserve his relevance in football discussions.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Jim Everett built a ten-season NFL career as a durable quarterback.
- His standout years with the New Orleans Saints highlight his professional success.
- Strong college performance at Purdue set the stage for his NFL path.
- Post-football work in media and charity keeps him engaged with the community.
FAQ
Reader questions
What made Jim Everett notable as a quarterback?
Jim Everett stood out for his strong throwing arm, competitive nature, and ability to perform in the NFL over ten seasons. His highlight moments with the New Orleans Saints and solid college performance at Purdue defined his reputation as a reliable starter.
Which teams did Jim Everett play for during his career?
He played for the Los Angeles Rams, New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, and Minnesota Vikings. His most impactful years were with the Saints, where he became a consistent passer and fan favorite.
How did Jim Everett perform academically and in college recruiting?
Everett balanced athletics and academics at Purdue, earning recognition for his discipline and work ethic. His recruiting profile showed promise early, which led to his development into a collegiate starting quarterback.
What is Jim Everett doing now after retiring from football?
Since retiring, Jim Everett has participated in media projects, charitable activities, and occasional speaking engagements. He continues to contribute to football conversations and support community initiatives.