Matt Hasselbeck's journey in professional football began when he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the sixth round of the 1998 NFL Draft. Although he spent his initial years as a backup to Brett Favre, this period was instrumental in shaping his understanding of the game. Hasselbeck's time with the Packers laid the groundwork for his future as a starting quarterback in the NFL.
In 2001, Hasselbeck was traded to the Seattle Seahawks, a move that would define the bulk of his career. Under the guidance of head coach Mike Holmgren, who had previously worked with him in Green Bay, Hasselbeck gradually took over the starting quarterback role. By the 2003 season, he had firmly established himself as the team's leader on offense. His ability to read defenses and execute plays became evident as he led the Seahawks to their first playoff appearance in four years.
The 2005 season marked a high point for Hasselbeck and the Seahawks. He guided the team to a franchise-best 13-3 record, earning a trip to Super Bowl XL. Although the Seahawks fell to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Hasselbeck's performance throughout the season earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl and recognition as one of the league's top quarterbacks. His leadership and poise under pressure were critical in Seattle's success during this period.
Hasselbeck continued to be a reliable presence for the Seahawks over the next few years, leading them to multiple playoff appearances. Injuries, however, began to take a toll on his performance and availability. Despite these challenges, he remained a respected figure in the locker room and a mentor to younger players.
In 2011, Hasselbeck signed with the Tennessee Titans, bringing his veteran experience to a team in transition. He started all 16 games that season, helping the Titans achieve a 9-7 record. His time in Tennessee was marked by his role in mentoring rookie quarterback Jake Locker, preparing him to take over as the team's starter.
After two seasons with the Titans, Hasselbeck joined the Indianapolis Colts in 2013 as a backup to Andrew Luck. His presence provided stability and depth to the Colts' quarterback position. Hasselbeck's experience proved invaluable during the 2015 season when he stepped in for an injured Luck, leading the team to several key victories and demonstrating his enduring capability as a quarterback.
Hasselbeck announced his retirement from professional football in 2016, concluding a career that spanned nearly two decades. He transitioned to a role as an analyst for ESPN, where he continued to share his insights and knowledge of the game.
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