Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Greg McElroy

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 17, 2025

Discover the career path of Greg McElroy, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Greg McElroy is an American football commentator and former NFL quarterback. He played college football at the University of Alabama, leading the Crimson Tide to an undefeated 14-0 season in 2009, winning both the SEC Championship and the BCS National Championship. Before college, he achieved success in high school, winning a Texas 5A state championship. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the 2011 NFL Draft after a successful college career. After retiring from the NFL, McElroy transitioned into a career as a football commentator.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

2005: Texas 5A State Championship

In 2005, during his first season as a starter, Greg McElroy led his team to a 16–0 season, winning the Texas 5A state championship. He passed for 4,636 yards and 56 touchdowns.

2008: First career interception

In 2008, Greg McElroy threw his first career interception against Arkansas. Ramon Broadway returned the ball to the Alabama 34-yard line.

2009: MVP of the SEC Championship Game

In 2009, Greg McElroy led Alabama to a 32-13 victory over Florida in the SEC Championship Game, securing a spot in the 2010 BCS National Championship Game. He was named the game's MVP.

2009: Starting Quarterback for Crimson Tide

In 2009, Greg McElroy was confirmed as the starting quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide. His first start was in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game against Virginia Tech. He and Mark Ingram II were named SEC Offensive Player of the Week.

2009: SEC Championship and BCS National Championship

In 2009, as a junior, Greg McElroy led the Alabama Crimson Tide to an undefeated 14–0 season, including the 2009 SEC Championship and BCS National Championship.

2010: 2010 BCS National Championship

In 2010, Greg McElroy led the Crimson Tide to victory in the 2010 BCS National Championship Game versus the Texas Longhorns.

July 29, 2011: Four-year contract with the Jets

On July 29, 2011, Greg McElroy agreed to a four-year contract with the New York Jets.

August 15, 2011: Preseason Debut

On August 15, 2011, Greg McElroy made his preseason debut against the Houston Texans, completing 23 of 39 passes for 208 yards and a touchdown.

2011: Capital One Bowl win

In 2011, Greg McElroy led the Alabama Crimson Tide to a 10–3 record which included a 49–7 win over Michigan State in the 2011 Capital One Bowl.

December 2, 2012: NFL Debut

On December 2, 2012, Greg McElroy made his NFL debut, replacing Mark Sanchez and throwing his first career touchdown pass to Jeff Cumberland. The Jets won the game 7-6 against the Arizona Cardinals.