History was made on the grandest stage of the NFL as Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles
became the first Black quarterback in franchise history to win a Super Bowl. Hurts has
cemented his place among the NFL’s elite. Hurts’ journey to the top has been nothing short of
inspirational. Overlooked by some scouts and doubted even after his selection in the second
round of the 2020 NFL Draft, he has consistently silenced critics with his work ethic, leadership,
and performance. His ability to throw with precision, make plays with his legs, and command the
respect of his teammates has made him a true franchise quarterback.
A couple of years ago, when Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts faced off in Super Bowl LVII, it
marked the first time two Black quarterbacks started against each other in the big game.
Mahomes, already a two-time MVP and a 3-time Super Bowl champion, has set the standard for
quarterback play in today’s NFL. Many believe he is on the path to chasing the Greatest of All
Time (G.O.A.T.) status. Hurts’ ability to go toe-to-toe with Mahomes and now win a Super Bowl
himself solidifies his place as one of the league’s brightest stars.
In a sport where the quarterback position is widely regarded as the most important on the field,
Hurts’ victory not only secured a championship for the Eagles but also represented a significant
milestone in the ongoing journey of Black quarterbacks in the NFL. The road for Black
quarterbacks in the NFL has been long and arduous, filled with racial barriers, stereotypes, and
systemic doubts about their intelligence and leadership capabilities. Historically, Black athletes
were often funneled into other positions, with many decision-makers refusing to believe they
could lead a team at the quarterback position. However, over the years, Black quarterbacks
have continued to break these barriers, proving their intelligence, athleticism, and leadership on
the biggest stages.
To further understand the significance of Hurts’ win, one must realize the exclusive company
he’s in. Hurts is on a very short list, as he is one of eight Black quarterbacks who have started in
a Super Bowl. Doug Williams made history as the first Black quarterback to start and win the
Super Bowl with Washington in 1988. Steve McNair led the Tennessee Titans to Super Bowl
XXXIV in 2000, falling just one yard short of potential victory. Donovan McNabb took the Eagles
to Super Bowl XXXIX in 2005, a heartbreaking loss to the New England Patriots. Colin
Kaepernick guided the San Francisco 49ers to Super Bowl XLVII in 2013, coming up just short
against the Baltimore Ravens. Russell Wilson became the second Black quarterback to win a
Super Bowl, leading the Seattle Seahawks to a dominant victory in 2014. Cam Newton’s
electrifying 2015 season propelled the Carolina Panthers to Super Bowl 50, though they fell to
the Denver Broncos. Patrick Mahomes, considered the best quarterback in the league today,
has become a dominant force, leading the Kansas City Chiefs to multiple Super Bowls and
victories. Jalen Hurts is also a part of this elite group, and he also becomes only the fourth Black
quarterback to win a Super Bowl.
Women's History Made as Autumn Lockwood Becomes the First Black Female Coach to Win a Super Bowl
The historical significance of this Super Bowl extends beyond just the players on the field.
Autumn Lockwood made history as the first Black female coach to help guide her team to a
Super Bowl victory. As an associate performance coach for the Eagles, Lockwood played a
crucial role in the team’s conditioning and strength training, ensuring players were in peak
physical form. She is only the second Black woman in an NFL coaching role and one of just 15
women across the entire league. Her presence on the sidelines is a testament to the strides
being made in diversity and inclusion within the NFL.
As the Eagles lifted the Lombardi Trophy, their win is bigger than just football. It is a testament
to resilience and breaking barriers. For Philadelphia Eagles fans and minority race fans who
understand the challenges Blacks have faced, this victory is about more than just a
championship—it is about progress, representation, and the continued fight for equality. Blacks
have long been told what they couldn’t do; now, they continue to show the world what they can
do!
By Christopher Collins II
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