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 former NFL quarterback, primarily known for his successful tenure with the Dallas Cowboys. He began his college football career at Oklahoma before transferring to UCLA, where he won the Davey O'Brien Award. Drafted first overall by the Cowboys in 1989, Aikman led the team to six Pro Bowls and three Super Bowl victories, earning Super Bowl XXVII MVP honors. His achievements led to his induction into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2006) and the College Football Hall of Fame (2008).

Sections (5)

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

1983: Oklahoma High School Typing Champion

In 1983, Troy Aikman won the Oklahoma high school state championship in typing.

1987: Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year

In 1987, as a junior at UCLA, Troy Aikman was named Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year. He threw for 2,525 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions, leading the Bruins to a 10–2 record and a victory in the Aloha Bowl.

1988: Davey O'Brien Award and Heisman Trophy Finalist

In 1988, Troy Aikman won the Davey O'Brien Award as the nation's top quarterback and was a Consensus All-American. He threw for 2,771 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. He finished third in voting for the 1988 Heisman Trophy.

1991: Injury and Pro Bowl Selection

In 1991, Troy Aikman was injured during a game against the Washington Redskins, leading to Steve Beuerlein taking over. Aikman was selected to his first Pro Bowl that year.

1992: Super Bowl XXVII MVP

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

1993: Super Bowl XXVIII Victory

In 1993, Troy Aikman led the Cowboys to another Super Bowl victory (Super Bowl XXVIII) against the Buffalo Bills despite suffering a concussion in the NFC Championship game.

1995: Super Bowl XXX Victory

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

1997: First Cowboys QB with Three Straight 3,000-Yard Seasons

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

1999: Aikman ranked on The Sporting News' list

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

2004: Aikman's Emmy Nomination and potential Dolphins deal

In 2004, Troy Aikman received an Emmy Award nomination for his television work and nearly came out of retirement to sign a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins, which ultimately did not happen.

September 19, 2005: Aikman inducted into Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor

On September 19, 2005, Troy Aikman was inducted into the Dallas Cowboys Ring of Honor at halftime of the Dallas Cowboys-Washington Redskins game along with Michael Irvin and Emmitt Smith.

August 5, 2006: Aikman inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame

On August 5, 2006, Troy 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, solidifying his legacy as one of the greats.

2008: Election to College Football Hall of Fame

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

February 7, 2009: Aikman's College Hall of Fame induction honored

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

November 2013: Aikman named NCAA Silver Anniversary Award recipient

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

November 28, 2014: UCLA Jersey Retirement

On November 28, 2014, UCLA retired Troy Aikman's #8 jersey during halftime against Stanford, honoring his contributions to the program.

2014: Aikman receives NCAA Silver Anniversary Award

Troy Aikman was named a 2014 recipient of the NCAA Silver Anniversary Award, given annually to former college athletes 25 years after the end of their college athletics careers.