Desmond Howard's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 29, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Desmond Howard. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Desmond Howard is a former NFL wide receiver and current ESPN sportscaster. He achieved fame as a return specialist, setting NFL records for punt return yardage. A standout at the University of Michigan, he won the Heisman Trophy in 1991. Drafted into the NFL in 1992, Howard played for 11 seasons. He notably won Super Bowl XXXI MVP with the Green Bay Packers after a 99-yard kickoff return touchdown, a Super Bowl record at the time. He remains the only special teams player to ever receive the Super Bowl MVP award. Howard was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010 and has been an analyst on ESPN's College GameDay since 2005.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1964: Charley Taylor Draft

In 1964, the Washington Redskins drafted Charley Taylor. Desmond Howard was the highest Redskins draft pick since then.

1985: Fulton Walker's Punt Return Record

In 1985, Fulton Walker set the NFL record for punt return yards with 692. In 1996, Desmond Howard surpassed this record with 875 punt return yards.

1991: Dominant Season

In 1991, Desmond Howard had an outstanding season, catching 62 passes for 985 yards and scoring 23 total touchdowns, while also rushing for 180 yards and gaining 694 yards on special teams. He won the Heisman Trophy, Maxwell Award, and Walter Camp Award, earning unanimous All-American honors.

1991: Heisman Trophy Winner

In 1991, Desmond Howard won the Heisman Trophy while playing college football for the Michigan Wolverines.

1996: Outstanding Season with the Green Bay Packers

In 1996, Desmond Howard had an outstanding season with the Green Bay Packers, leading the NFL in punt returns, punt return yards, punt return average, and punt return touchdowns. He also had a blunder in the second half where he failed to come out of the locker room in time for the start of the third quarter.

1998: Led NFL in Kickoff Returns

In 1998, Desmond Howard spent the football season with the Oakland Raiders. He led the NFL in kickoff returns with 61 and kickoff return yards with 1,381.

February 2001: Pro Bowl Appearance

In February 2001, Desmond Howard made his first and only Pro Bowl appearance as the NFC's kick returner.

2010: College Football Hall of Fame Induction and Jersey Honored

In 2010, Desmond Howard was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and honored as the inaugural Michigan Football Legend, with his No. 21 jersey receiving special recognition.