Former American football player Steven Michael “Steve” Largent was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his illustrious career. Born on September 28, 1954, Largent. Steve Largent’s life story encompasses more than simply football, however. He joined politics as well, representing Oklahoma as a Republican in the House of Representatives from 1994 to 2002.
Largent made the tough decision to enter the 2002 three-way campaign for governor of Oklahoma. He was sadly unsuccessful in winning the governor’s contest despite his background and leadership skills.
Steve Largent made a name for himself in the NFL as a great wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks before going into politics. He established a lasting impact throughout his 14 seasons of professional football play with the Seahawks by setting several records and winning numerous titles. When he left the game in 2003, his name was a byword for his receiving accomplishments.
Steve Largent Bio
American football player Steve Largent was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on September 28, 1954. His projected June 1, 2023 net worth is $5 million. Steve is distinguished not only by his skill on the field but also by his kind deed of letting Jerry Rice to wear his retired #80 jersey when Rice joined the Seahawks.
Steve Largent earned a name for himself as a Hall of Fame NFL wide receiver throughout his storied career, playing for the Seattle Seahawks from 1976 to 1989. His achievements include seven Pro Bowl selections and impressive career stats with 13,089 receiving yards and exactly 100 touchdown receptions.
Outside of football, Largent ventured into politics, serving as a representative in the House of Representatives. He notably supported measures to legalize cockfighting within the state of Oklahoma.
On a more personal note, Steve Largent was a loving father to four children: Casie, Kyle, Kelly, and Kramer, and shared his life with his spouse, Terry Bullock.
Steve Largent Early Life
The setting in which Stephen Michael Largent was raised was difficult. He was made on September 29, 1954, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His parents separated before he was six, and unfortunately his mother eventually wed his abusive, alcoholic stepfather. Sadly, Largent’s mother and he often took the brunt of his stepfather’s rage.
Despite the toxic environment at home, Largent was determined to break the cycle as he grew older. He recalled many nights crying himself to sleep, promising that his future family would never endure such suffering.
To escape his stepfather’s abuse, Largent threw himself into sports. At Putnam City High School in Oklahoma City, he spent almost all of his free time participating in sports. He jokingly said in an interview from 2012 that he almost declared athletics as his major in high school.
Although he didn’t envision a future as a professional athlete at that time, Largent worked tirelessly to become the hardest worker on every team he joined. For instance, in preparation for each football season, he would catch an astounding 300 passes every day. His unwavering goal was to earn a scholarship.
Understanding that his parents couldn’t assist with his college expenses, Largent pushed himself to stand out in the eyes of college coaches. He also sought affirmation and support from his coaches, something he felt lacking at home. In a candid moment, he revealed, “I needed somebody to love me, and the people that I chose were my coaches.” He had a strong desire for his instructors to respect and admire him, and he was prepared to give up his body to achieve success.
Largent received letters in football and baseball by the time he graduated from high school. Despite the fact that he may not have been the greatest player on either squad, his perseverance and diligence led to the University of Tulsa offering him a scholarship.
Steve Largent College Career
Largent made his imprint on the football pitch from 1973 to 1975 when he was a student at Tulsa. His outstanding collegiate career numbers include 149 catches, 2,504 yards gained overall, and an amazing 32 touchdowns.
Largent’s exceptional performance wasn’t disregarded, and in his senior year, he received the distinction of being selected an All-American. Given his outstanding year, which includes 1,042 receiving yards and a record-breaking 14 touchdown receptions, this distinction was well-deserved.
Steve Largent NFL Career
The Houston Oilers chose Steve Largent in the fourth round, 117th overall, in the 1976 NFL Draft. Even though he never played a down for them, he finally decided to join with the Seattle Seahawks before the regular season even started. That choice influenced him throughout his whole NFL career, which he played in the Emerald City exclusively.
Largent retired following the 1989 season, cementing his NFL legacy. As league leader in receptions (819), yards (13,089), and touchdowns (100), His accomplishments earned him membership in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995.
Steve Largent Height
Steve Largent stands at a height of 5 feet 11 inches. His stature, while not the tallest among football players, certainly didn’t hinder him from achieving greatness on the field.
Steve Largent Relationship
According to the facts at hand, Steve and Terry Largent are really wed. However, as of January 12, 2023, there is no proof that he is seeing anybody else at the moment. Steve seems to be happily committed to his marriage with Terry.
Steve Largent Zodiac Sign
On September 28, 1954, a Tuesday, Steve Largent was conceived. He is now 69 years old as of today. Steve falls under the zodiac sign Libra, and his birth flower is either the Morning Glory or the Aster.
All-American Golden Hurricane
Steve Largent didn’t instantly grab everyone’s attention when he initially came to Tulsa. He had not yet got the opportunity to demonstrate his abilities on the pitch, standing just under six feet tall.
After a subdued rookie year, he made a breakthrough in 1973. Largent distinguished himself that year by accumulating an astounding 33 catches for 501 yards and four scores.
Largent moved up the social ladder the next year, in 1974, becoming the elite. He caught 52 catches for an amazing 884 yards and 14 incredible scores. He led all college football players in touchdowns scored. He was appropriately selected for the All-Missouri Valley Conference squad as a result of his outstanding season.
The trend continued in 1975. Largent continued to excel as a senior, racking up 51 catches for a staggering 1,000 yards and an additional 14 touchdowns. He was chosen for the All-Missouri Valley Conference squad a second time after leading the country in touchdowns once again. The renowned title of All-American was also conferred upon him due to his remarkable performance.
Largent recorded a total of 136 catches throughout his three seasons as a starter for the Golden Hurricanes, spanning 2,385 yards with an amazing average of 17.5 yards per grab and tallying a mind-boggling 32 touchdowns. Largent distinguished himself as a genuine star for the programme even if Tulsa’s total record from 1973 to 1975 was just 21-12, which was quite ordinary.
While he didn’t play for a well-known college football powerhouse, Largent entered the 1976 NFL Draft with the confidence that NFL teams would recognize the talent he brought to the game.
Fourth Round Pick
Even though Steve Largent was an All-American, most NFL clubs unexpectedly showed little interest in him during the drought. The hours passed as he nervously awaited a call that never came.
When the Houston Oilers picked him with the 117th overall selection in the fourth round, it was the right time. Largent didn’t waste any time after arriving in Houston starting to work out and proving to the instructors that he meant business.
However, fate had different plans for Largent. After the Oilers’ final preseason game, then-head coach Bum Phillips delivered a heartbreaking blow. He explained that the team had their fill of receivers, including the iconic Billy “White Shoes” Johnson, and consequently, they were releasing Largent. He was disappointed since he felt he wasn’t given an opportunity.
Fortunately, his selection year brought optimism. The Seattle Seahawks, an NFL expansion team, were preparing for their debut season and were in desperate need of talent. Largent was finally transferred from Houston to Seattle in exchange for a 1977 draft selection in the eighth round.
Largent not only made the Seahawks’ roster but also joined forces with fellow receivers Don Clune, Sam McCullum, and Steve Raible, marking the start of his remarkable journey with the team.
Largent Takes Off with Seattle
When Steve Largent arrived in Seattle, it happened to be at the same time as Seahawks assistant coach Jerry Rhome. Largent had previously been coached by Rhome at Tulsa, and their working relationship continued in Largent’s first season. Everyone quickly knew that Largent was the Seahawks’ top receiver, and this realization didn’t take long.
In the same year, the Seahawks also welcomed quarterback Jim Zorn. Zorn had an unconventional journey to Seattle. Dallas had previously signed him as an undrafted free agent, but he was later released. Seattle offered him another shot in 1975 after a year without football.
Zorn and Largent turned out to be the ideal combo, thrilling Seahawks supporters for years to come. Largent caught five of Zorn’s passes in the team’s opening game against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Largent had an amazing 54 catches towards the conclusion of his first season, collecting 705 yards, and scoring four touchdowns. Zorn’s outstanding performance won him the team MVP award and the AFC Offensive Rookie of the Year distinction.
While Largent saw fewer throws (33) and yards (643) in 1977 compared to the year before, he did manage to catch an incredible 10 touchdown passes from Zorn, further confirming their effective on-field chemistry.
Steve Largent Catches NFL Record-Setting 100th TD
One of the greatest NFL wide receivers set a record. Seattle defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 24-17 on December 10, 1989. Steve Largent battled the whole game, only intercepting 5 passes for a total of 68 yards. However, one of those catches was a crucial touchdown grab that covered a distance of 10 yards.
Prior to the game, Largent and the late Don Hutson shared the record for 99 touchdown receptions in NFL history. He shattered a record that had been held for 44 years when he made his 100th touchdown reception, proving the improvement of the passing game in the NFL while also leaving his name in history.
Surprisingly, Largent’s record-breaking feat didn’t last for very long. Another Hall of Fame star, Jerry Rice, beat Largent’s record in 1992 after just three years, underscoring the NFL’s dynamic character and the exceptional skills of its wide receivers.
Steve Largent Net Worth
Steve Largent is undoubtedly one of the well-off football players hailing from the United States. Based on our research, which includes information from Wikipedia, Forbes, and Business Insider, his estimated net worth stands at $5 million.
Conclusion
From a difficult childhood to NFL wide receiver and politician, Steve Largent’s story is fascinating. His dedication to football in college and throughout his 14-year Seattle Seahawks career transformed it forever. Largent’s record-breaking 100th touchdown catch and Hall of Fame induction demonstrate his on-field success.
In addition to his career in football, his venture into politics as a Republican member of the House of Representatives gave his legacy a new facet. Largent’s dedication to public service is noteworthy despite a failed run for governor.
Steve Largent has persevered throughout his life due to a difficult childhood. He rose to the top of the NFL by using his love of sports.
As a loving husband and father, Steve Largent exhibits his family commitment. His $5 million riches and long-lasting effect on sports and politics make him an American icon.
