The Oilers' most famous quarterback was Warren Moon. He is widely recognized as the franchise's most iconic signal-caller during their time in Houston, leading an exciting, high-powered offense known as "Run & Shoot."
Warren Moon's Impact with the Houston Oilers
Warren Moon joined the Houston Oilers in 1984 after a highly successful career in the Canadian Football League (CFL), where he won five Grey Cups. His arrival in the NFL was groundbreaking, and he quickly established himself as a premier passer.
During his ten seasons with the Oilers (1984-1993), Moon consistently ranked among the league's top quarterbacks, earning numerous accolades and setting multiple franchise records. He was instrumental in transforming the Oilers into a perennial playoff contender, leading them to seven consecutive playoff appearances from 1987 to 1993.
Key Achievements with the Houston Oilers:
- Most Career Wins: Warren Moon holds the distinction of having the most career wins by a Houston Oilers quarterback, with an impressive 72 victories. This record underscores his consistent performance and leadership throughout his tenure.
- "Run & Shoot" Offense: Moon was the perfect fit for the Oilers' innovative "Run & Shoot" offense, which emphasized four wide receivers and a dynamic passing game. This system, under offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride, became a hallmark of the Oilers' identity in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
- Pro Bowl Selections: He was selected to the Pro Bowl six times as a Houston Oiler, showcasing his sustained excellence and recognition among his peers and fans.
- Statistical Prowess: Moon consistently put up impressive passing numbers, leading the league in passing yards twice (1990, 1991) and throwing for over 3,000 yards in all but one of his full seasons with the team.
Moon's tenure with the Oilers is often remembered for his incredible arm strength, accuracy, and ability to extend plays. Though he never reached the Super Bowl with Houston, his thrilling performances and significant contributions cemented his legacy as the most famous and impactful quarterback in Oilers history.
Warren Moon's Oilers Career at a Glance
For a quick overview of Warren Moon's significant achievements with the Houston Oilers, consider the following:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Years with Oilers | 1984-1993 |
| Career Wins (Oilers) | 72 |
| Pro Bowl Selections | 6 |
| Passing Yards (Oilers) | 33,685 |
| Passing Touchdowns (Oilers) | 196 |
After his time with the Oilers, Moon went on to play for the Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, and Kansas City Chiefs, further cementing his Hall of Fame career. His journey from undrafted college player to CFL superstar to NFL legend, culminating as the face of the Houston Oilers, makes him an unforgettable figure in football history.
