Troy Aikman's Success and Achievements in Timeline

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

Troy Aikman is a Hall of Fame former NFL quarterback, primarily known for his 12 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. After a college career at UCLA where he won the Davey O'Brien Award, he was the first overall pick in the 1989 NFL draft. Aikman led the Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories, earning MVP honors in Super Bowl XXVII. A six-time Pro Bowler, his career is defined by his leadership and success in restoring the Cowboys to prominence. He was inducted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1983: Won Typing Championship

In 1983, Troy Aikman won the Oklahoma high school state championship in typing, showcasing his diverse talents.

1987: Named Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year

In 1987, as a junior, Troy Aikman was named Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year, throwing for 2,525 yards and 17 touchdowns and leading the Bruins to a 10-2 record.

1988: Davey O'Brien Award

In 1988, Troy Aikman won the Davey O'Brien Award as the nation's top quarterback, a first for UCLA. He also threw for 2,771 yards and 24 touchdowns during his senior year.

1989: Drafted #1 Overall

In 1989, Troy Aikman was selected first overall in the NFL draft by the Dallas Cowboys, marking the beginning of his professional career.

1991: First Pro Bowl Selection

In 1991, Troy Aikman was selected to the first of six consecutive Pro Bowls, marking a significant achievement in his NFL career.

1992: Super Bowl XXVII MVP

In 1992, Troy Aikman led the Cowboys to victory in Super Bowl XXVII against the Buffalo Bills and was named Super Bowl MVP.

1993: Super Bowl XXVIII Victory

In 1993, Troy Aikman led the Dallas Cowboys to victory in Super Bowl XXVIII, defeating the Buffalo Bills 30-13.

1995: Super Bowl XXX Victory

In 1995, Troy Aikman led the Dallas Cowboys to victory in Super Bowl XXX against the Pittsburgh Steelers, securing their third Super Bowl win in four years.

1996: NFC East Division Title

In 1996, Troy Aikman helped lead the Cowboys to another NFC East Division title and a home game in the wild card round.

1997: First Quarterback in Cowboys History

In 1997, Troy Aikman became the first quarterback in Cowboys history to have three straight 3,000-yard seasons.

1998: Rebound Year for Aikman and Cowboys

In 1998, despite missing five games, Troy Aikman helped lead the Cowboys back to the NFC East title and the playoffs.

1999: Ranked No. 95 on The Sporting News' list

In 1999, Aikman was ranked No. 95 on The Sporting News' list of the 100 Greatest Football Players.

1999: Career-High Five Touchdown Passes

In 1999, Troy Aikman threw a career-high five touchdown passes, including the game-winner in overtime, against the Washington Redskins.

2004: Emmy Award nomination and near comeback with Miami Dolphins

In 2004, Aikman received an Emmy Award nomination for his television work. Also in 2004, he nearly came out of retirement to sign a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins, but the Dolphins ended up not signing him.

September 19, 2005: Inducted into the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor

On September 19, 2005, Aikman was inducted into the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor with Michael Irvin and Emmitt Smith.

August 5, 2006: Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame

On August 5, 2006, Aikman was one of six players inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

2006: Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame

In 2006, Troy Aikman was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his outstanding achievements in the NFL.

2008: Election to College Football Hall of Fame

In 2008, Troy Aikman was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his achievements in college football.

February 7, 2009: Honored for induction into the College Hall of Fame

On February 7, 2009, Aikman's induction into the College Hall of Fame was honored at a halftime ceremony during a UCLA-Notre Dame basketball game.

November 2013: Named a 2014 recipient of the NCAA Silver Anniversary Award

In November 2013, Aikman was named a 2014 recipient of the NCAA Silver Anniversary Award.

November 28, 2014: UCLA Retired his #8 Jersey

On November 28, 2014, UCLA retired Troy Aikman's #8 jersey at halftime against Stanford, an honor recognizing his contributions to the university's football program.