Field Generals: History of the Black Quarterback
Season 1
Created by:
Network:
Season aired: 2026-02-05
Overview
The stories of the trailblazing and pioneering quarterbacks who transformed American football—from the AFL-NFL merger through the turn of the century. By placing their journeys in full historical and social context, it reveals how politics, culture, and race shaped both their struggles and their triumphs.
Advertisement
AdSense · 320×100
Episodes · 4
Resistance
Marlin Briscoe, Joe Gilliam and James Harris break the NFL's color barrier at QB despite resistance.
Alternative Route
In the '70s, most Black QB hopefuls must switch positions in the NFL, while others head to Canada.
Race to the Top
Doug Williams endures racism and personal tragedy to become the first Black QB to win a Super Bowl.
The Quarterbacks of the Future
Black QBs of the '80s and '90s revolutionize how the position would be played going forward.
