Peete entered the NFL when he was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the sixth round of the 1989 NFL Draft. His professional career began with the Lions, where he played from 1989 to 1993. During his time in Detroit, Peete shared quarterback duties with other players, including Erik Kramer and Andre Ware. Despite the competition, he managed to secure a starting position for several seasons, demonstrating his ability to lead the team on the field.
In 1994, Peete signed with the Dallas Cowboys, where he served primarily as a backup quarterback. His tenure with the Cowboys was short-lived, and he moved on to the Philadelphia Eagles in 1995. It was with the Eagles that Peete found more stability, playing for the team until 1998. During his time in Philadelphia, he was often called upon to step in as the starting quarterback, showcasing his reliability and experience.
Peete's career continued with the Washington Redskins in 1999, where he played for one season. He then joined the Oakland Raiders in 2000, though his time there was brief. In 2001, Peete signed with the Carolina Panthers, where he enjoyed a resurgence in his career. Under head coach John Fox, Peete was named the starting quarterback for the 2002 season. He led the Panthers to a 7-9 record, a significant improvement from their 1-15 record the previous year. His leadership and performance on the field earned him the Ed Block Courage Award, an honor given to players who exemplify commitments to the principles of sportsmanship and courage.
Peete's role with the Panthers continued into the 2003 season, where he started the first game before being replaced by Jake Delhomme. Despite this, Peete remained an integral part of the team, providing veteran leadership and support from the sidelines. The Panthers went on to reach Super Bowl XXXVIII that season, though they were ultimately defeated by the New England Patriots.
After the 2004 season, Peete retired from professional football. Over the course of his 16-year career, he played for six different NFL teams, completing 1,344 passes for 16,338 yards and 76 touchdowns. His longevity in the league is a testament to his skill and adaptability as a quarterback.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Peete is also known for his work off the field. He and his wife, actress Holly Robinson Peete, have been active in philanthropy, particularly in raising awareness for autism and Parkinson's disease through their HollyRod Foundation. Peete's post-football life has also included work as a sports commentator and analyst, sharing his insights and experiences with a new generation of football fans.
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