Joe Ferguson, a quarterback known for his strong arm and leadership on the field, began his professional football career when he was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the 1973 NFL Draft. Born in Alvin, Texas, Ferguson played college football at the University of Arkansas, where he honed the skills that would serve him well in the NFL.

Ferguson's tenure with the Buffalo Bills spanned over a decade, from 1973 to 1984. During this period, he became a central figure in the team's offense, known for his ability to throw deep passes and manage the game effectively. In his rookie season, Ferguson quickly took over the starting quarterback position, demonstrating his readiness to lead the team. His performance in the 1975 season was particularly noteworthy, as he threw for over 2,000 yards and helped guide the Bills to a playoff appearance.

Throughout his career with the Bills, Ferguson was often paired with the legendary running back O.J. Simpson, forming a dynamic offensive duo. The 1975 season was a highlight, with Ferguson's passing complementing Simpson's rushing prowess, leading to one of the most potent offenses in the league at the time. Ferguson's ability to connect with receivers like Bob Chandler and Frank Lewis further solidified his role as a reliable quarterback.

Injuries, however, were a recurring challenge for Ferguson, impacting his performance and availability in several seasons. Despite these setbacks, he remained a resilient presence on the field, often playing through pain to support his team. His perseverance was evident in the 1980 season when he led the Bills to their first playoff victory in over a decade, defeating the New York Jets in the Wild Card round.

After his long stint with the Bills, Ferguson's career continued with the Detroit Lions, where he played from 1985 to 1987. Although his time with the Lions was shorter and marked by a transition to a backup role, he still managed to contribute when called upon. Ferguson's experience and veteran presence were valuable assets to the Lions' quarterback room.

Ferguson's career concluded with brief periods at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Indianapolis Colts in 1988 and 1989, respectively. While his playing time was limited during these final years, his influence as a seasoned quarterback was appreciated by his teammates and coaches.

Over his 17-year career in the NFL, Joe Ferguson accumulated impressive statistics, including over 29,000 passing yards and 196 touchdown passes.

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