Kelly's professional football career began when he was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the first round of the 1983 NFL Draft. However, he initially opted to play for the Houston Gamblers in the USFL, where he quickly became one of the league's standout players. During his time with the Gamblers, Kelly's performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he threw for over 9,800 yards and 83 touchdowns in just two seasons. His success in the USFL set the stage for his eventual transition to the NFL.
In 1986, Kelly finally joined the Buffalo Bills, and his arrival marked the beginning of a new era for the team. Under the guidance of head coach Marv Levy, Kelly became the centerpiece of the Bills' high-powered offense, famously known as the "K-Gun" offense. This no-huddle, fast-paced style of play was revolutionary at the time and allowed Kelly to utilize his quick decision-making and strong arm to great effect.
Throughout his career with the Bills, Kelly led the team to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances from 1990 to 1993. Although the team fell short in each of these championship games, Kelly's leadership and skill were instrumental in the Bills' sustained success during this period. His ability to read defenses and execute plays with precision made him one of the most respected quarterbacks of his era.
Kelly's career statistics reflect his prowess on the field. Over 11 seasons with the Bills, he amassed 35,467 passing yards and 237 touchdowns. He was selected to the Pro Bowl five times and was named First-team All-Pro in 1991. Kelly's performance in the playoffs was equally impressive, as he led the Bills to numerous victories and memorable comebacks.
Off the field, Kelly was known for his toughness and resilience. He played through numerous injuries, including a severe knee injury in 1991 that required surgery. Despite the physical toll of the game, Kelly's determination to lead his team never wavered, and he continued to be a driving force for the Bills until his retirement in 1996.
After retiring from professional football, Kelly was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002, a testament to his outstanding career and contributions to the sport. His legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements, as he has been involved in various charitable endeavors, particularly those focused on children's health and cancer research, inspired by his son Hunter's battle with Krabbe disease.
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