Jim Zorn's journey in professional football began when he joined the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 1976. As the team's first starting quarterback, Zorn quickly became a central figure in the Seahawks' early years. Known for his left-handed throws and mobility, he played a crucial role in establishing the team's offensive identity. Zorn's partnership with wide receiver Steve Largent became one of the most productive duos in the league during that era. Together, they helped the Seahawks gain respectability in the NFL.
Zorn's tenure with the Seahawks lasted until 1984. During this period, he was known for his ability to extend plays and his fearless approach on the field. Despite the challenges of playing for an expansion team, Zorn's leadership and skill were evident. He passed for over 3,000 yards in three consecutive seasons from 1978 to 1980, showcasing his ability to lead the offense effectively.
After leaving the Seahawks, Zorn had brief stints with the Green Bay Packers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Although his time with these teams was short, he continued to demonstrate his understanding of the game and his ability to mentor younger players. His playing career concluded with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Canadian Football League, where he played for a single season.
Transitioning from player to coach, Zorn began his coaching career in 1988 as an assistant coach at Boise State University. His NFL coaching career started in 1997 when he joined the Seattle Seahawks as an offensive assistant. Zorn's expertise in developing quarterbacks became evident during his time with the Seahawks, where he worked with quarterbacks like Jon Kitna and Matt Hasselbeck.
In 2008, Zorn was appointed as the head coach of the Washington Redskins. His first season saw the team achieve an 8-8 record, but the following year proved challenging, and he was relieved of his duties after the 2009 season. Despite the difficulties faced during his tenure as head coach, Zorn's knowledge of the game and his ability to connect with players were recognized throughout the league.
Following his head coaching stint, Zorn continued his coaching career as a quarterbacks coach with the Baltimore Ravens and later with the Kansas City Chiefs. His influence on the development of quarterbacks remained a constant theme throughout his coaching journey.
Jim Zorn's career in football, both as a player and a coach, spanned several decades and left a lasting legacy in the NFL.
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