The Rise and Fall of Steve Pisarkiewicz: A Tale of Triumph and Tragedy

Introduction

Steve Pisarkiewicz was a talented quarterback who achieved great heights in football. A product of the University of Missouri, he was drafted in the first round of the NFL draft and showed promise in his first few seasons. However, things took a turn for the worse, and he ended up falling from grace.

Early Life and Career

Steve Pisarkiewicz was born on July 27, 1954, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In high school, he was a standout football player, which helped him get a scholarship to the University of Missouri. He played as the starting QB for three seasons and set school records in passing yards and completions. He was selected in the first round of the NFL draft by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1977, where he played backup for two seasons before becoming the starting quarterback in 1979.

Breakout Season

In 1979, Steve Pisarkiewicz had a breakout season. He passed for 2,777 yards and completed 19 touchdowns, which helped lead the Cardinals to an 8-8 record. He made it to the top 10 in the NFL in both passing yards and passing touchdowns. This performance earned him the nickname “Peek-a-Boo” Pisarkiewicz.

Injuries and Setbacks

In 1980, Pisarkiewicz suffered a season-ending injury, which set him back. He struggled to regain his form, and the Cardinals moved on from him after the 1981 season. He then signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but struggled in his two years there, throwing only three touchdowns. He was released after the 1983 season, and his NFL career was over.

Life After Football

After his NFL career, Steve Pisarkiewicz started a new chapter in life. He worked as a commentator, served as a high school football coach, and later as a sales executive. He continued to stay close to football and helped in the development of young quarterbacks.

Downfall and Tragedy

Despite his successes, Steve Pisarkiewicz faced tough times during his life. He went through a divorce and suffered from alcoholism. In 2004, he was arrested for driving under the influence and later attempted to commit suicide. Sadly, he passed away on August 18, 2016, at the age of 62.

Legacy

Steve Pisarkiewicz’s legacy is one of triumph and tragedy. He was a promising athlete who struggled with injuries and personal demons. However, he left his mark on the game of football and inspired many young quarterbacks. His career serves as an example of the highs and lows of the NFL.

Conclusion

Steve Pisarkiewicz was a talented quarterback who overcame many challenges and achieved a lot in his career. However, his life took a tragic turn, and he eventually passed away at the age of 62. Despite his flaws, he remained an inspiration to those who knew him and a reminder of the harsh realities of life as an athlete.

FAQs

Q1. What was Steve Pisarkiewicz known for?
A1. Steve Pisarkiewicz was a talented quarterback who played in the NFL during the late 1970s and early 1980s. He was known for his strong arm and accurate passing.

Q2. What was Steve Pisarkiewicz’s breakout season?
A2. Steve Pisarkiewicz’s breakout season was in 1979, where he passed for 2,777 yards and 19 touchdowns.

Q3. Why did Steve Pisarkiewicz’s NFL career end?
A3. Steve Pisarkiewicz’s NFL career ended because of injuries and a decline in his performance as a quarterback.

Q4. What did Steve Pisarkiewicz do after his NFL career?
A4. After his NFL career, Steve Pisarkiewicz worked as a commentator, high school football coach, and sales executive.

Q5. How did Steve Pisarkiewicz pass away?
A5. Steve Pisarkiewicz passed away on August 18, 2016, at the age of 62.