Jay Schroeder

One would never guess by his charming, easygoing nature that Jay was a quarterback in the National Football League for eleven years and retired in1994. Eleven incredible years since he started only one college game at UCLA in 1980 before he was chosen in the 3rd round of the NFL draft in 1984 by the Washington Redskins (now Washington Football Team). Jay’s first NFL game experience came in 1985 when starting quarterback Joe Theisman’s leg was brutally broken during a game against the New York Giants. Jay finished the year as the starter and the next year Jay passed for over 4,000 yards enroute to the Pro Bowl. Jay started 10 league games for the 1987 Super Bowl Championship team.

In 1988 he was traded to the Los Angeles Raiders with whom he played for 5 years. During those years he had many exciting games including a dramatic overtime win in Denver after trailing 24-0 at halftime, and a career-high four touchdowns against the Minnesota Vikings. In 1993 Jay played for the Cincinnati Bengals and then the Arizona Cardinals in 1994. Jay finished his career with over 20,000 yards passing, over 100 touchdown passes, and a .648 winning percentage.

Jay enjoyed much success during his career in the NFL but he also faced many obstacles. One of Jay’s greatest testimonies is that in both accolades and adversity he has always looked to the Lord for stability, and has kept his perspective. In addition to his challenges on the field, Jay was challenge off the field by an unexpected discovery of a brain tumor in his then 6 year old son C.J. Thankfully C.J. experienced a miraculous healing by the grace of God which provides for a wonderful story on family values, priorities, and the power of prayer.

BACKGROUND

Jay was drafted into professional baseball in 1979 while a senior at Palisades High School in Los Angeles by the Toronto Blue Jays. Because of his strong arm and all-around athletic ability Jay was selected in the first round as the 3rd overall pick. While excited about baseball, he decided to keep his options open and also played college football at UCLA. For two years Jay was a year round athlete, alternating college football and minor league baseball. Overwhelmed by both sports Jay decided to pursue baseball full-time since it was his first love. It was during his 3 years in the minors and attending Spring Training that Jay became involved with Baseball Chapel. Through Baseball Chapel Jay recommitted his life to Christ in 1983. Frustrated by his slow progress in the minor league baseball system Jay went back to football.

Jay and his wife Debbie have been married 22 years. They have thee children. Brian, (21) plays baseball in the minor leagues and is married to Dianna, Christopher, (19) is studying automotive design, and their daughter, Katelyn Joy, is 8 and enjoying third grade. Jay treasures his time at home with his family and is committed to traditional family values. Jay was on staff with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in San Diego for 4 years. He coached football and baseball at Christian High for 6 years and has been involved with many Christian and/or charitable organizations including Pro-Athletes Outreach and Focus on The Family. He speaks regularly at schools, churches and FCA related events. Jay is currently enjoying life and golf in beautiful St. George, Utah.