André Ware is a former NFL quarterback whose career path and key life moments are often summarized by a simple question from fans and researchers: when did André Ware officially join each team and milestone. This timeline clarifies where he played, when he signed, and how the dates align with his historic Heisman Trophy season.
Below is a structured overview of André Ware’s major career and life dates, followed by focused sections that explain each phase in more detail.
| Event | Date Joined / Year | Team or Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| College Commitment | 1985 | University of Houston | Signed national letter of intent in February 1985 |
| Heisman Trophy Season | 1989 | Houston Cougars | Won Heisman Trophy as senior, set NCAA single-season TD record |
| NFL Draft | 1990 | Selected by Detroit Lions | Drafted 7th overall in April 1990 NFL Draft |
| Professional Contract Signed | July 1990 | Detroit Lions | Rookie contract established base salary and bonuses for 1990 season |
| First Regular Season Start | 1990 | Detroit Lions | Started Week 3, became first African American quarterback to start a season opener for Lions |
| Trade to Washington | April 1993 | Washington Redskins | Traded for a conditional draft pick, marking his move to a new franchise |
| Short Return to NFL | 1995 | Kansas City Chiefs | Signed briefly, did not appear in regular season games |
| Broadcasting Career Start | 1998 | ESPN and other networks | Transitioned to college football analyst after playing career |
College Commitment and Early Eligibility
Letter of Intent and Signing Day Details
André Ware dates joined the University of Houston program when he officially signed his letter of intent in 1985. This commitment bound him to the Cougars and set the timeline for his eligibility under NCAA rules. By enrolling a semester early and redshirting, he managed to extend his amateur career and prepare for a landmark season.
Heisman Trophy Season and NFL Draft Transition
1989 Performance and Draft Preparation
In 1989, André Ware dates joined the record books as he led the nation in touchdown passes and won the Heisman Trophy. His success in college directly influenced his draft stock, and teams began preparing offers well before the 1990 NFL Draft. The combination of statistics, interviews, and media exposure made his transition to the professional ranks highly anticipated.
Professional Contract and Detroit Lions Timeline
Negotiations, Signing, and First Season
After the draft, André Ware dates joined the Detroit Lions when he signed his rookie contract in July 1990. The deal outlined base salary, signing bonuses, and incentives tied to playing time and performance. His first regular season start in Week 3 of 1990 cemented his place in franchise history and highlighted the pressure that came with being a high draft pick.
Trade to Washington and Limited Playing Time
1992 to 1994 with the Redskins
André Ware dates joined the Washington Redskins in April 1993 after Detroit traded him for a conditional draft pick. In Washington, he served primarily as a backup and spot starter, which limited his statistical impact but extended his time in the league. The move reshaped his career trajectory and eventually led to his brief stint in Kansas City.
Broadcasting Career and Legacy Building
Transition from Player to Analyst
Starting in 1998, André Ware dates joined ESPN and other networks as a college football analyst. This shift allowed him to remain visible in the football world while sharing insights from his playing experience. His broadcasting work reinforced his long-term influence, even as his days as a starting quarterback on the field came to an end.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Mark critical André Ware dates like his 1985 commitment and 1990 draft signing to understand his career pace.
- Use contract milestones, such as his 1990 rookie deal and 1993 trade, to study how quarterback careers evolve in the NFL.
- Follow broadcasting transitions as a measure of long-term impact beyond playing statistics.
FAQ
Reader questions
When did André Ware sign his letter of intent with Houston?
He signed his national letter of intent in February 1985, committing to play for the University of Houston.
What year did André Ware join the Detroit Lions through the draft?
André Ware joined the Detroit Lions when he was drafted in 1990, with his rookie contract signed that July.
When did André Ware join the Washington Redskins?
He joined the Washington Redskins in April 1993 after being traded from Detroit.
When did André Ware transition to broadcasting full time?
André Ware transitioned to broadcasting full time starting in 1998, working with ESPN and other networks as a college football analyst.