Quarterback who played in the NFL for nine seasons, including four with the Kansas City Chiefs, and later became a coach.
Elvis Grbac, a former NFL quarterback, is best known for his nine-season tenure in the league, particularly his four-year stint as the starter for the Kansas City Chiefs. During his time with the Chiefs, Grbac led the team to two playoff berths and one division title, earning himself a Pro Bowl honor in 2000.
Grbac was born on August 13, 1970, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Ivan and Cecilija Grbac, who had immigrated to the United States from Istria, Croatia in 1967. He attended St. Joseph High School, where he played basketball and football alongside future Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard.
Grbac initially wanted to continue his football career at Ohio State, but changed his mind after the Buckeyes fired head coach Earle Bruce. Instead, he joined Howard at the University of Michigan, where he played college football from 1989 to 1992. During his time at Michigan, Grbac led the Wolverines to a Gator Bowl in 1991 and three Rose Bowls in 1990, 1992, and 1993.
Grbac was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the eighth round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He spent his first four seasons as a backup with the 49ers before becoming the starter for the Kansas City Chiefs in 1997. During his four-year tenure with the Chiefs, Grbac led the team to two playoff berths and one division title, earning himself a Pro Bowl honor in 2000.
However, Grbac's time with the Chiefs was not without controversy. He was involved in a quarterback controversy with Rich Gannon during the 1997 season, with the Chiefs' decision to start Grbac over Gannon drawing retrospective criticism due to Gannon's subsequent success with the Oakland Raiders.
Grbac played his final season in the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens in 2001 before retiring from professional football.
After retiring from the NFL, Grbac became the athletic director at Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School, the high school he attended as a student. He has remained involved in his community, giving back to the school that helped shape his athletic career.
Grbac's legacy in the NFL is that of a strong leader who helped his team achieve success during his time as a starter. While his career was not without controversy, he remains a beloved figure in Kansas City Chiefs history.
Elvis Grbac's story is one of perseverance and dedication, both on and off the field. His legacy continues to inspire athletes and fans alike, serving as a reminder of the importance of hard work and community involvement.
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