The true integration of the National Football League started in 1946 after four African American men broke the color barrier. Ever since then, players of color have continued to make and break history when given the opportunity. One position that has historically been an area that lacks diversity is the quarterback. An African American quarterback didn’t start a game until 1968, but this has fortunately changed. At the beginning of the 2022 season, 11 African American quarterbacks were starting. Even better, two started in Superbowl LVII.

At this point, we already know how the Super Bowl ended, and even if your team didn’t win, the inspiration that came along with this moment meant that the country and world as a whole did. Not only did Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts make it to the Super Bowl, but they also proved to the world that they, and others like them, deserved to be there. “This is showing a change in the narrative of American football and society in general. I think it’s great,” junior and Dubs football player Xaden Benson said.

With his incredible stats, Jalen Hurts set several records including being the first-ever NFL player in any game, not just the Super Bowl, to pass for over 300 yards, rush for 70 yards, and rush for three touchdowns. Patrick Mahomes was not only the league MVP but also the Super Bowl MVP. On a high ankle sprain, Mahomes threw for 286 yards with two touchdown passes and ran for 29 yards with a rushing touchdown to lead the Chiefs to a second-quarter comeback win. Both of these performances were impressive and, even better, inspirational. “These are two great quarterbacks so it is not surprising that they have made it to this level,” said Dubs football player Aaron Edmonds. “But I do believe that it is a big step in the right direction for the African American community within sports.”

This past year, Dubs football went all the way to the second round of the playoffs led by a black quarterback: senior Trey Lennon. “Seeing two black quarterbacks play in the Super Bowl was very inspiring and motivational to me,” Lennon said. “It shows that the goal is not out of reach and it can be accomplished.” Having someone at a high level be where you want to be in the future can make a difference in some people’s lives as a sense of motivation. And thanks to the new changes in NFL diversity, the Dubs are getting motivated.