Career Timeline of Dan Orlovsky: Major Achievements and Milestones

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 2, 2026

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Dan Orlovsky made an impact.

Dan Orlovsky is a former NFL quarterback who played for 12 seasons, primarily as a backup. He is now a football analyst for ESPN and ABC, providing commentary and insights on the sport.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

March 1, 2009: Orlovsky Signed with the Houston Texans

On March 1, 2009, Dan Orlovsky signed a 3-year, $9 million deal with the Houston Texans, but was beaten out for the backup quarterback position by Rex Grossman during the preseason, becoming the team's third-string quarterback.

July 30, 2011: Orlovsky signed with the Indianapolis Colts

On July 30, 2011, Dan Orlovsky signed with the Indianapolis Colts as a free agent, marking another transition in his NFL career.

September 27, 2011: Colts re-signed Orlovsky

On September 27, 2011, after being released during final roster cuts, the Indianapolis Colts re-signed Dan Orlovsky, providing him with a renewed opportunity on the team.

November 30, 2011: Orlovsky Named Starter for Colts

On November 30, 2011, Dan Orlovsky was named the starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, taking over from the benched Curtis Painter.

December 18, 2011: Orlovsky Achieves First NFL Win as Starter

On December 18, 2011, Dan Orlovsky secured his first official win as a starter in the NFL, leading the Indianapolis Colts to victory against the Tennessee Titans after an 0-13 start to the season.

December 22, 2011: Orlovsky Leads Colts to Comeback Victory

On December 22, 2011, Dan Orlovsky orchestrated a 12-play, 78-yard drive to lead the Indianapolis Colts to a comeback victory over the Houston Texans with less than two minutes remaining in the game.

March 15, 2012: Orlovsky Signed with Tampa Bay Buccaneers

On March 15, 2012, Dan Orlovsky signed a two-year contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

April 4, 2013: Buccaneers Cut Orlovsky

On April 4, 2013, Dan Orlovsky was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

April 8, 2013: Buccaneers Re-Signed Orlovsky

On April 8, 2013, only four days after being cut, Dan Orlovsky re-signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

April 2, 2014: Orlovsky Signed with Detroit Lions

On April 2, 2014, Dan Orlovsky signed with the Detroit Lions to serve as Matthew Stafford's backup quarterback.

March 2, 2015: Lions Re-Signed Orlovsky

On March 2, 2015, the Detroit Lions re-signed Dan Orlovsky to a one-year contract, continuing his role as backup quarterback.

March 11, 2016: Lions Re-Signed Orlovsky

On March 11, 2016, the Detroit Lions re-signed Dan Orlovsky as their primary backup quarterback to Matthew Stafford.

July 20, 2017: Orlovsky Signed with Los Angeles Rams

On July 20, 2017, Dan Orlovsky signed with the Los Angeles Rams, adding another team to his NFL career.

October 11, 2017: Orlovsky Announced Retirement

On October 11, 2017, Dan Orlovsky officially announced his retirement from professional football.

2018: Orlovsky Joined ESPN as Analyst

In 2018, Dan Orlovsky transitioned into a broadcasting career, joining ESPN as a football analyst.

May 18, 2022: Orlovsky Joins ESPN NFL Crew

On May 18, 2022, Dan Orlovsky joined the #2 ESPN NFL crew alongside Steve Levy and Louis Riddick Jr., taking over from Brian Griese.

July 7, 2025: Orlovsky Agrees to Multi-Year Contract Extension with ESPN

On July 7, 2025, Dan Orlovsky agreed to a multi-year contract extension with ESPN, solidifying his role as a football analyst.

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