Matthew Leinart is widely recognized as a top quarterback from the University of Southern California who brought excitement and clutch performances to professional football. Understanding which teams he played for reveals how he transitioned from college stardom to the National Football League.
Leinart entered the league as a high draft pick and experienced significant moments on the field. The following sections outline the key teams and phases of his career.
| Team | League | Years | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| USC Trojans | College | 2001–2005 | Starting Quarterback |
| Arizona Cardinals | NFL | 2006–2010 | Starting Quarterback & Backup |
| Houston Texans | NFL | 2011 | Backup Quarterback |
| Oakland Raiders | NFL | 2012 | Backup Quarterback |
| Detroit Lions | NFL | 2013 | Backup Quarterback |
Arizona Cardinals Era
Leinart signed with the Arizona Cardinals as the top overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. He began his career as the Cardinals starting quarterback and led the team to playoff appearances early in his tenure. This period showcased his arm talent and competitive drive at the highest level of professional football.
Houston Texans and Backup Roles
After leaving the Cardinals, Leinart joined the Houston Texans in 2011. He served primarily as a backup during his time in Houston, providing depth and occasional game management when called upon. The move marked a shift toward a reserve role in the league.
Oakland Raiders and Detroit Lions Stints
Leinart spent the 2012 season with the Oakland Raiders, again backing up the starting quarterback and contributing in limited situations. The following year, he signed with the Detroit Lions, where he continued to serve as a backup. These final NFL chapters demonstrated his persistence and professionalism despite reduced playing time.
College Success with USC
Before entering the NFL, Leinart achieved legendary status at the University of Southern California. He led the Trojans to national championships and earned numerous awards, establishing a foundation of excellence that carried into his professional career. His college performances remain a benchmark for quarterback excellence.
Key Takeaways
- Played college football at the University of Southern California as a star quarterback.
- Spent his prime years as the starting quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals.
- Provided veteran leadership as a backup for the Texans, Raiders, and Lions.
- Transitioned from high draft pick to a respected reserve role across multiple teams.
- Left a lasting legacy rooted in his college achievements and NFL perseverance.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which team drafted Matthew Leinart and when did he play there?
He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2006 and played with them from 2006 to 2010, serving as the starting quarterback for several seasons.
Did Matthew Leinart ever play for the Houston Texans?
Yes, he played for the Houston Texans in 2011, serving as a backup quarterback behind the starter.
What teams did Matthew Leinart back up in the NFL after Arizona?
After the Cardinals, he backed up quarterbacks for the Houston Texans, Oakland Raiders, and Detroit Lions.
Was Matthew Leinart a starter at any other team besides the Cardinals?
No, he was primarily a starter during his time with the Arizona Cardinals and served mainly as a backup in later seasons.