Jim Shofner was a professional football player and coach who had a successful career in the sport. He played as a quarterback and defensive back for various teams in the National Football League (NFL) and the American Football League (AFL) during the 1960s and 1970s.
Shofner began his football career at Baylor University, where he played as a quarterback and defensive back. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1958 and played for them for three seasons before being traded to the Baltimore Colts. He played for the Colts for one season before being traded again, this time to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Shofner played for the Steelers for two seasons before being traded to the AFL's Denver Broncos. He played for the Broncos for two seasons before retiring as a player in 1967.
After retiring as a player, Shofner began his coaching career. He started as an assistant coach for the Broncos and then moved on to coach for various teams in the NFL and the United States Football League (USFL). He was the head coach of the USFL's Houston Gamblers in 1985 and 1986, leading them to a 24-12 record over two seasons.
Shofner returned to the NFL in 1987 as an assistant coach for the Cleveland Browns. He then went on to coach for the Kansas City Chiefs, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Buffalo Bills. He was the Bills' offensive coordinator in 1990, helping them reach the Super Bowl that year.
Throughout his career, Shofner was known for his innovative offensive strategies and his ability to develop young players. He was also respected for his leadership and his dedication to the sport of football.
In addition to his coaching career, Shofner was also involved in various charitable organizations. He was a board member of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and was active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Jim Shofner passed away in 2018 at the age of 85. He is remembered as a talented player and coach who made significant contributions to the sport of football.
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