Drew Bledsoe

Drew Bledsoe transitioned from a prominent NFL quarterback to a successful entrepreneur in the wine industry. After being named Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year in 1992, Drew Bledsoe was the first overall pick in the 1993 NFL Draft. During his collegiate career at Washington State University, Bledsoe led the Cougars to a 9-3 record in 1992, culminating in a Copper Bowl victory. He also set Washington State records for single-game passing yards (476), single-season pass completions (241), and single-season passing yards (3,246) before declaring for the NFL.

In his rookie NFL season, Bledsoe made history as the first rookie quarterback to finish a game with a perfect passer rating. Bledsoe played nine seasons with the New England Patriots, leading the team to four playoff appearances, two division titles, and a Super Bowl XXXI appearance in the 1996 season. He earned three Pro Bowl selections during his tenure with New England in 1994, 1996, and 1997. In 1994, he set single-game records with 45 completions and 70 attempts, orchestrating a notable comeback victory.

Transitioning from the gridiron, Drew Bledsoe co-founded Doubleback Winery, a successful venture cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay in Walla Walla, Washington, which has since expanded its operations with a new Oregon property. His post-NFL career also includes philanthropic efforts, establishing the Drew Bledsoe Foundation. His football legacy continues to be honored, including being named honorary captain of the New England Patriots for the AFC Championship Game in 2018, induction into the National Quarterback Hall of Fame in 2019, and the Pac-12 Conference Hall of Honor in 2022.