Biography
Tommy Kramer, born on March 7, 1955, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a former American football quarterback who gained prominence in the National Football League (NFL) during the 1980s. He played college football at Rice University, where he demonstrated his prowess as a playmaker, ultimately leading to his selection by the Minnesota Vikings in the 1980 NFL Draft. Known for his strong arm and competitive spirit, Kramer became a key player for the Vikings and made an immediate impact on the team's performance.
Throughout his career with the Vikings from 1977 to 1989, Kramer achieved significant personal and team milestones. He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection, earning recognition for his quarterbacking abilities in 1986 and 1987, and played a pivotal role in leading the Vikings to multiple playoff appearances, including the NFC Championship game in 1987. With over 21,000 passing yards and 135 touchdown passes, he remains one of the franchise's all-time leading quarterbacks.
Kramer's legacy transcends just statistics; he is remembered for his resilience and ability to perform in critical situations. Notably, he orchestrated several come-from-behind victories, including an iconic 1986 game against the San Francisco 49ers where he threw for over 400 yards. Following his retirement, Kramer has been involved in various charitable activities and remains a celebrated figure among Vikings fans and the greater football community.