Fuller was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the first round of the 1979 NFL Draft, selected as the 23rd overall pick. Coming out of Clemson University, where he had a notable college football career, Fuller was expected to bring a new dynamic to the Chiefs' offense. During his tenure with Kansas City, Fuller showed promise but also faced challenges, including injuries that affected his playing time and performance. Despite these setbacks, he demonstrated leadership and skill on the field, contributing to the team's efforts during his seasons with the franchise.
In 1983, Fuller's NFL journey took him to the Los Angeles Rams, though his time with the team was brief. His stint with the Rams was marked by limited playing time, and he did not have a significant impact on the team's performance during his tenure there. This period was a transitional phase in Fuller's career, serving as a bridge between his initial years with the Chiefs and his subsequent role with the Chicago Bears.
Fuller's most notable tenure came when he joined the Chicago Bears. As a member of the Bears, Fuller played a crucial role as a backup quarterback, especially during the 1985 season, which is remembered as one of the most dominant campaigns by a team in NFL history. Fuller stepped in for injured starting quarterback Jim McMahon at various points during the season, including starting several games. His contributions helped the Bears maintain their momentum, ultimately leading to their victory in Super Bowl XX, where Fuller earned a championship ring. Although his role was primarily as a backup, Fuller's reliability and performance when called upon were valuable assets to the Bears' championship-winning team.
Throughout his NFL career, Steve Fuller was known for his professionalism, work ethic, and versatility as a quarterback. While he may not have achieved the statistical milestones of some of his contemporaries, Fuller's contributions to his teams, especially the Chicago Bears during their championship season, solidified his place in NFL history. After retiring from professional football, Fuller's legacy has remained tied to his role in one of the most memorable seasons in the Chicago Bears' storied history.
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