Desmond Howard remains one of the most electrifying wide receivers in National Football League history, known for jaw‑catching plays and legendary goal‑line celebrations. Understanding who did Desmond Howard play for reveals how his career unfolded across multiple franchises and shaped his legacy.
His journey through the league transformed him from a high‑profile draft pick into a Super Bowl champion and Hall of Famer. Below is a snapshot of his career path at a glance.
| Team | Years | Role | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington Redskins | 1992–1994 | Primary WR | Pro Bowl in 1992, 71 catches for 1,055 yards in 1992 |
| Jacksonville Jaguars | 1995–1998 | Founding Franchise WR | Team’s first-ever draft pick, led team in catches 1995–1996 |
| Green Bay Packers | 1999–2001 | Deep Threat & Slot Receiver | Super Bowl XXXI champion, 56 catches for 879 yards, NFL MVP |
| Oakland Raiders | 2002 | WR / Return Specialist | Contributed on special teams during playoff run |
| Chicago Bears | 2002 | WR | Short mid‑season stint, played 5 games |
Formative Years With the Washington Redskins
Desmond Howard entered the NFL as the fourth overall pick in the 1992 draft, landing with the Washington Redskins. In his rookie season, he earned a Pro Bowl berth and showcased elite speed down the field. During his time in Washington, he became one of the most dangerous return specialists and deep threats in the league, setting the stage for future success.
Founding the Jacksonville Jaguars
Expansion Draft and Early Impact
When the Jacksonville Jaguars joined the NFL in 1995, Desmond Howard was their first-ever draft selection. He embraced the challenge of building a brand‑new franchise and responded with two consecutive 1,000‑yard receiving seasons. His play helped legitimize the Jaguars as a competitive AFC opponent during their early years.
Championship Pedigree in Green Bay
Super Bowl XXXI Run
Arguably the peak of who did Desmond Howard play for came with the Green Bay Packers in 1996, when he returned a kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown in Super Bowl XXXI. That iconic play symbolized his game‑changing ability and helped the Packers secure a dominant victory. Howard’s mix of size, speed, and route‑running made him a reliable target for Brett Favre during that championship season.
MVP Season and Legacy
Howard was named NFL MVP in 1996, capping a career year with over 1,000 receiving yards and numerous big‑play receptions. His time in Green Bay remains his most celebrated chapter, earning him a lasting place in Lambeau Field lore and reinforcing his Hall of Fame credentials.
Final Seasons Across the League
After Green Bay, Desmond Howard wrapped up his career with brief stints that still reflected his value. He joined the Oakland Raiders in 2002, contributing on special teams during a deep playoff run. Later that year, he signed with the Chicago Bears, where he appeared in a handful of games, providing veteran leadership and occasional clutch targets in limited action.
Legacy Across Teams
- Washington Redskins launched his stardom with a Pro Bowl rookie season.
- Jacksonville Jaguars showcased his durability as a founding franchise player.
- Green Bay Packers delivered a championship and MVP season.
- Oakland Raiders and Chicago Bears added veteran depth late in his career.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which team drafted Desmond Howard first in the NFL?
He was drafted by the Washington Redskins with the fourth overall pick in the 1992 NFL Draft.
What was Desmond Howard’s signature highlight in the Super Bowl?
His 99‑yard kickoff return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XXXI against the Buffalo Bills remains one of the most memorable plays in championship history.
For which team did Desmond Howard win the NFL MVP award?
He earned the NFL MVP award in 1996 while playing for the Green Bay Packers.
Did Desmond Howard finish his career with the team that originally drafted him?
No, he ended his playing days with the Chicago Bears after earlier stints with the Redskins, Jaguars, Packers, and Raiders.