John Reaves, a quarterback known for his time in both the National Football League (NFL) and the World Football League (WFL), began his professional football career after a standout college tenure at the University of Florida. Drafted in the first round of the 1972 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles, Reaves entered the league with high expectations. His college career had been impressive, setting an NCAA record for career passing yards, which made him a sought-after prospect.
Reaves' early years in the NFL were challenging. Playing for the Eagles, he faced stiff competition and struggled to secure a consistent starting position. The team was in a rebuilding phase, and Reaves found himself part of a roster that was trying to find its footing in the league. Despite these challenges, he gained valuable experience and showcased his skills when given the opportunity.
In 1974, Reaves took a detour from the NFL to join the World Football League, signing with the Florida Blazers. The WFL was an upstart league that aimed to rival the NFL, and Reaves saw it as a chance to get more playing time and further develop his abilities as a quarterback. His time in the WFL was brief, as the league faced financial difficulties and eventually folded.
Returning to the NFL, Reaves continued his career with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he played as a backup quarterback. His role with the Bengals was limited, but he provided depth to the team's quarterback roster. In 1979, Reaves joined the Minnesota Vikings, where he again served primarily as a backup. His tenure with the Vikings was marked by a similar pattern of limited playing time but valuable contributions in practice and as a mentor to younger players.
Reaves' career took another turn when he joined the Houston Oilers in 1981. With the Oilers, he found more opportunities to play, although he still faced competition for the starting quarterback position. His time with the Oilers marked the end of his NFL career, as he retired from professional football shortly thereafter.
Throughout his career, John Reaves was known for his perseverance and adaptability.
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