The Legendary Cris Collinsworth: Throwing Back To His Prime Days

Wondering what Cris Collinsworth was like back in the day? The former NFL wide receiver and current NBC commentator had a storied career on and off the field.

Cris Collinsworth played wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals from 1981 to 1988. During his playing days, he was known for his sure hands and precise route running. He was also a key member of the Bengals' offense, helping the team reach Super Bowl XVI in 1982. After retiring from the NFL, Collinsworth began his broadcasting career with NBC in 1990. He has since become one of the most respected commentators in the sport.

Cris Collinsworth is a highly respected figure in the NFL. He is known for his insightful commentary and his ability to connect with viewers. He is also a passionate advocate for the game of football. Collinsworth's contributions to the NFL have been significant, both on and off the field.

Name	Born	NFL Draft	Position	Teams	Years Active
Cris Collinsworth	January 27, 1959	1981, 37th overall	Wide receiver	Cincinnati Bengals	1981-1988

Cris Collinsworth Back in the Day

Cris Collinsworth was a standout wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals in the 1980s. He was known for his sure hands, precise route running, and ability to make big plays in. Collinsworth was a key member of the Bengals' offense, helping the team reach Super Bowl XVI in 1982. He was also a two-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1980s.

Playing Style

Cris Collinsworth was a possession receiver who was known for his ability to get open and make catches in traffic. He was also a very good blocker, which made him a valuable asset to the Bengals' running game. Collinsworth was not the fastest or most athletic receiver in the NFL, but he made up for it with his intelligence, toughness, and determination.

Career Highlights

Cris Collinsworth had a very successful NFL career. He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1980s. He also helped the Bengals reach Super Bowl XVI in 1982. Collinsworth finished his career with 5,537 receiving yards and 38 touchdowns.

Legacy

Cris Collinsworth is considered one of the best wide receivers of his era. He was a key member of the Bengals' offense and helped the team reach Super Bowl XVI. Collinsworth is also a respected broadcaster and has been a part of NBC's NFL coverage for over 30 years.

Cris Collinsworth Back in the Day

Cris Collinsworth was a standout wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals in the 1980s. Known for his sure hands, precise route running, and ability to make big plays, he was a key member of the Bengals' offense. Collinsworth was also a two-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1980s.

• Playing Style: Possession receiver with sure hands and precise route running.
• Career Highlights: Two-time Pro Bowl selection, NFL All-Decade Team of the 1980s, Super Bowl XVI appearance.
• Legacy: Considered one of the best wide receivers of his era, respected broadcaster.
• Impact on the Bengals: Key member of the offense, helped the team reach Super Bowl XVI.
• Transition to Broadcasting: Began broadcasting career with NBC in 1990, became one of the most respected commentators in the sport.
• Advocacy for Football: Passionate advocate for the game of football, both on and off the field.

These key aspects highlight Cris Collinsworth's exceptional skills as a wide receiver, his significant contributions to the Cincinnati Bengals, and his successful transition to broadcasting. His legacy as a player and commentator has left a lasting impact on the NFL.

Name	Born	NFL Draft	Position	Teams	Years Active
Cris Collinsworth	January 27, 1959	1981, 37th overall	Wide receiver	Cincinnati Bengals	1981-1988

Playing Style

Cris Collinsworth's playing style as a possession receiver with sure hands and precise route running was a key component of his success in the NFL. He was known for his ability to get open and make catches in traffic, even when closely guarded by defenders. Collinsworth's precise route running allowed him to create separation from defenders and get open for passes, making him a reliable target for his quarterbacks.

Collinsworth's sure hands were another key aspect of his playing style. He rarely dropped passes, even in difficult situations. This made him a valuable asset to the Bengals' offense, as they could always count on him to make the catch and move the chains.

Collinsworth's combination of sure hands and precise route running made him one of the most dangerous possession receivers in the NFL. He was able to consistently move the chains and make big plays for the Bengals. His playing style was a key factor in the Bengals' success in the 1980s.

Career Highlights

Cris Collinsworth's career highlights are a testament to his exceptional skills and contributions to the NFL. These accolades not only showcase his individual achievements but also highlight his impact on the Cincinnati Bengals and the sport as a whole.

• Pro Bowl Selections: Being selected to the Pro Bowl is a prestigious honor reserved for the best players in the NFL. Collinsworth's two Pro Bowl selections in 1981 and 1983 recognize his outstanding performance and consistent contributions to the Bengals' success.
• NFL All-Decade Team of the 1980s: This prestigious honor is bestowed upon the most exceptional players who left an indelible mark on the NFL during a particular decade. Collinsworth's inclusion on the NFL All-Decade Team of the 1980s is a testament to his dominance as a wide receiver throughout that era.
• Super Bowl XVI Appearance: Playing in the Super Bowl is the pinnacle of achievement for any NFL player. Collinsworth's appearance in Super Bowl XVI with the Bengals in 1982 showcases his ability to perform under the brightest lights and contribute to his team's success on the grandest stage.

These career highlights underscore Cris Collinsworth's exceptional talent, dedication, and impact on the NFL. They serve as a lasting legacy of his contributions to the sport and solidify his status as one of the most accomplished wide receivers of his era.

Legacy

Cris Collinsworth's legacy as both a standout wide receiver and a respected broadcaster is deeply connected to his accomplishments and impact during his playing days. His exceptional skills on the field, coupled with his insightful commentary and analysis, have solidified his reputation as an iconic figure in the NFL.

As a player, Collinsworth's precise route running, sure hands, and ability to make big plays made him one of the most dangerous possession receivers in the league. He was a key contributor to the Cincinnati Bengals' success in the 1980s, helping the team reach Super Bowl XVI in 1982. His outstanding performance earned him two Pro Bowl selections and a spot on the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1980s.

Following his retirement from playing, Collinsworth seamlessly transitioned into broadcasting, where he quickly gained recognition for his insightful commentary and ability to connect with viewers. His knowledge of the game, combined with his clear and engaging delivery, have made him one of the most respected commentators in the NFL. Collinsworth's contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, have earned him widespread admiration and solidified his legacy as a true legend of the game.

Impact on the Bengals

Cris Collinsworth's impact on the Cincinnati Bengals during his playing days was significant. As a key member of the offense, he played a pivotal role in the team's success, particularly during the 1980s. Collinsworth's exceptional skills and contributions were instrumental in helping the Bengals reach Super Bowl XVI in 1982.

Collinsworth's precise route running and sure hands made him a reliable target for his quarterbacks. He was able to consistently move the chains and make big plays, which were crucial for the Bengals' offensive success. His ability to get open and create separation from defenders allowed him to become a key component of the team's passing game.

Beyond his individual contributions, Collinsworth's impact on the Bengals was also evident in his leadership and work ethic. He was a dedicated and hardworking player who set a positive example for his teammates. His commitment to excellence and his ability to perform under pressure were essential factors in the Bengals' success.

The connection between "Impact on the Bengals: Key member of the offense, helped the team reach Super Bowl XVI." and "cris collinsworth back in the day" highlights the significant role that Collinsworth played in the Bengals' history. His contributions to the team's success, both on and off the field, solidified his legacy as a key figure in the Bengals' organization.

Transition to Broadcasting

Cris Collinsworth's transition to broadcasting after his playing career was a natural progression that showcased his deep understanding of the game and his ability to communicate effectively. His broadcasting career began with NBC in 1990, where he quickly established himself as one of the most respected and insightful commentators in the sport.

Collinsworth's transition to broadcasting was successful due to several factors. Firstly, his extensive experience as a player gave him a unique perspective on the game. He was able to provide detailed analysis and insights that only someone with his background could offer. Secondly, his natural communication skills and charisma allowed him to connect with viewers and make the game accessible and enjoyable for all.

The connection between Collinsworth's transition to broadcasting and his legacy as "cris collinsworth back in the day" is significant. His success as a commentator has further solidified his reputation as a legendary figure in the NFL. His ability to seamlessly transition from player to broadcaster demonstrates his versatility and adaptability, showcasing his enduring impact on the sport both on and off the field.

Advocacy for Football

Throughout his career and beyond, Cris Collinsworth has consistently demonstrated his unwavering passion for the game of football. His advocacy extends far beyond his playing days, as he actively promotes and supports the sport at various levels.

• Promoting Youth Football: Collinsworth recognizes the importance of introducing football to young athletes. He actively participates in youth football clinics and initiatives, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with the next generation of players.
• Supporting Player Safety: Player safety is paramount for Collinsworth. He advocates for rule changes and initiatives aimed at reducing injuries and promoting long-term health for football players.
• Mentoring and Coaching: Collinsworth serves as a mentor and coach for aspiring football players. He shares his insights and experiences to help young athletes develop their skills and navigate the challenges of the game.
• Promoting the History and Culture of Football: Collinsworth is passionate about preserving the history and culture of football. He supports initiatives that document and celebrate the sport's rich legacy and traditions.

Collinsworth's advocacy for football is deeply rooted in his belief in the sport's positive impact. He recognizes the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance that football can instill in individuals. By actively promoting the game, he aims to ensure its continued growth and popularity for future generations.

FAQs about "Cris Collinsworth Back in the Day"

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions about Cris Collinsworth's playing career, transition to broadcasting, and overall impact on the NFL.

Question 1: What made Cris Collinsworth stand out as a wide receiver?

Answer: Collinsworth excelled as a possession receiver due to his exceptional route running, sure hands, and ability to make big plays in crucial situations. His precision and reliability made him a valuable asset to the Cincinnati Bengals' offense.

Question 2: How did Collinsworth successfully transition from playing to broadcasting?

Answer: Collinsworth's deep understanding of the game, combined with his natural communication skills and charisma, allowed him to seamlessly transition to broadcasting. His ability to provide insightful analysis and connect with viewers made him one of the most respected commentators in the NFL.

Summary: Cris Collinsworth's exceptional talent as a wide receiver and his successful transition to broadcasting showcase his versatility, passion for the game, and enduring impact on the NFL.

Conclusion

Cris Collinsworth's journey from a standout wide receiver to a respected broadcaster epitomizes his unwavering passion for the game of football. His exceptional skills on the field, coupled with his insightful commentary and analysis, have solidified his legacy as a true icon of the NFL.

Collinsworth's impact extends beyond his individual achievements. His advocacy for youth football, player safety, and the preservation of the sport's history underscores his commitment to ensuring the game's continued growth and popularity. As his legacy continues to inspire future generations, Cris Collinsworth's contributions will forever be etched in the annals of football history.