Jim Hart's journey in professional football began when he joined the St. Louis Cardinals as an undrafted free agent. Despite the odds, he quickly established himself as a reliable quarterback, demonstrating a strong arm and a keen understanding of the game. Hart's tenure with the Cardinals spanned 18 seasons, during which he became one of the most enduring figures in the franchise's history.

Hart's early years with the Cardinals were marked by a period of growth and adaptation. Initially, he shared playing time with other quarterbacks, but his talent soon became evident. By the early 1970s, Hart had secured his position as the team's starting quarterback, a role he would maintain for over a decade. His leadership on the field was instrumental in guiding the Cardinals through several competitive seasons.

The mid-1970s were particularly fruitful for Hart and the Cardinals. Under the guidance of head coach Don Coryell, the team adopted an innovative offensive strategy that played to Hart's strengths. Known as "Air Coryell," this approach emphasized a dynamic passing game, allowing Hart to showcase his ability to connect with receivers downfield. During this period, Hart led the Cardinals to three consecutive 10-win seasons and two playoff appearances in 1974 and 1975.

Hart's performance during these years earned him recognition across the league. He was selected to the Pro Bowl four times, in 1974, 1975, 1976, and 1977, highlighting his status as one of the top quarterbacks of his era. His ability to read defenses and deliver precise throws made him a formidable opponent for any team.

Despite the success of the mid-1970s, the Cardinals faced challenges in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Changes in coaching staff and team dynamics affected their performance, but Hart remained a constant presence. His experience and leadership were invaluable as the team navigated these transitions.

In 1984, Hart's long association with the Cardinals came to an end. He joined the Washington Redskins, where he served as a backup quarterback. Although his time with the Redskins was brief, it marked the conclusion of a remarkable career in the NFL.

Throughout his career, Hart accumulated impressive statistics. He passed for over 34,000 yards and threw more than 200 touchdown passes. These achievements placed him among the top quarterbacks of his time and left a lasting legacy in the league.

Jim Hart's career is remembered for his longevity and consistency.

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