Troy Aikman is a former professional football quarterback, best known for his legendary career with the Dallas Cowboys and his current role as a prominent NFL commentator. A Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee, Aikman has left a lasting legacy both on and off the field through his Super Bowl victories and candid broadcasting career.
Early Life and College Career
Troy Kenneth Aikman was born on November 21, 1966, in West Covina, California. He moved to Henryetta, Oklahoma during his youth and quickly made a name for himself as a talented high school athlete in football and baseball.
Aikman started his college football career at the University of Oklahoma before transferring to UCLA due to a shift in offensive schemes. His stellar performance at UCLA included:
- Consensus All-American honors in 1988
- Davey O’Brien Award winner (1988)
- Finished third in Heisman Trophy voting
His success at the college level made him a top NFL prospect.
NFL Career with the Dallas Cowboys
Troy Aikman was selected as the first overall pick in the 1989 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. Though his rookie year was challenging with a 1-15 record, Aikman soon became the face of the franchise during the 1990s dynasty era.
Career Highlights:
- 3× Super Bowl Champion (XXVII, XXVIII, XXX)
- Super Bowl XXVII MVP
- 6× Pro Bowl Selection
- NFL Hall of Fame Inductee (2006)
- Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor Inductee
Career Stats:
- 71-56 career record
- 32,942 passing yards
- 165 touchdowns
- Renowned for accuracy and leadership
Aikman was a key figure in leading the Cowboys’ dynasty of the early 1990s, often partnering with fellow stars Emmitt Smith and Michael Irvin under the coaching of Jimmy Johnson.
Broadcasting Career
After retiring in 2000, Aikman transitioned into sports broadcasting, becoming one of the most recognizable voices in the NFL.
- Lead NFL Analyst for Fox Sports for over two decades.
- Currently serves as a Monday Night Football analyst for ESPN.
Aikman is known for his direct commentary, deep football insights, and occasional controversial takes, including his recent critique of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Najee Harris.
Recent News and Commentary
- January 2025: Aikman made headlines for criticizing the Pittsburgh Steelers during a slow start against the Bengals, questioning the team’s effort and execution.
- Steelers’ Playoff Critique: Aikman described the Steelers’ playoff outlook as “ugly” after their fourth straight loss.
- MVP Endorsement: Aikman publicly endorsed Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals for the NFL MVP award, citing his consistency and leadership.
- Najee Harris Controversy: His critique of Najee Harris, suggesting a lack of efficiency despite 1,000-yard seasons, sparked backlash online.
Personal Life
Troy Aikman married Catherine “Capa” Mooty in 2017 and has two daughters from his previous marriage. He is also involved in multiple philanthropic efforts, including his work with the Troy Aikman Foundation, which focuses on supporting children’s hospitals.
Legacy and Impact
Troy Aikman remains one of the most respected figures in NFL history. His blend of on-field success and off-field influence through broadcasting has solidified his place among the sport’s greats.
