Some receivers overpower defenders.
Some outrun them.
Mike Quick soared past them.
Born on May 14, 1959, in Columbia, South Carolina, Quick became one of the most explosive wide receivers in Philadelphia Eagles history. During the 1980s, he provided big-play ability, smooth route running, and vertical speed that made him a nightmare for defensive backs.
He wasn’t just productive.
He was dynamic.
On his birthday, we celebrate a player who helped define an era of Eagles football — and whose voice still resonates with Philadelphia fans today.
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From Appalachian State to the NFL
Mike Quick’s football journey began at Appalachian State University, where his combination of size and speed stood out immediately.
The Philadelphia Eagles selected him in the second round of the 1982 NFL Draft.
At 6’2” with long strides and reliable hands, Quick possessed the traits of a classic deep threat — but he offered much more than just speed.
He could:
- Track the ball effortlessly over his shoulder
- Win contested catches
- Run crisp intermediate routes
- Create separation in tight coverage
He wasn’t flashy.
He was efficient.
Breaking Out in Philadelphia
Quick’s breakout season came in 1983, when he caught 69 passes for 1,409 yards and 13 touchdowns — numbers that placed him among the league’s elite receivers.
He became the first Eagle to record a 1,400-yard receiving season.
His vertical ability opened up the offense and gave Philadelphia a legitimate field-stretching weapon.
Defenses had to account for him on every snap.
If they pressed too aggressively, he could beat them deep.
If they played soft coverage, he could exploit intermediate zones.
Pro Bowl Recognition
Quick earned five consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1983 to 1987 — a testament to his consistency and impact.
During that stretch, he was one of the NFL’s premier wide receivers.
He averaged over 17 yards per reception in his career — highlighting his big-play ability.
Philadelphia fans came to expect explosive moments whenever the ball was thrown in his direction.
A Signature Moment
One of Mike Quick’s most iconic plays came in 1985 against the Atlanta Falcons.
On Monday Night Football, he hauled in a deep pass and broke free for a dramatic game-winning touchdown in overtime — sending Veterans Stadium into chaos.
That moment cemented his reputation as a clutch playmaker.
He didn’t just catch passes.
He changed games.
Toughness Through Adversity
Quick’s career was unfortunately shortened by injuries, particularly a severe shoulder injury in 1988 that limited his ability to return to peak form.
Still, his impact during his prime seasons was undeniable.
He finished his career with:
- 363 receptions
- 6,464 receiving yards
- 61 touchdowns
Though his numbers might not reflect the longevity of some modern receivers, context matters.
In an era less dominated by passing, Quick stood among the league’s elite.
Beyond the Playing Field
After retiring, Mike Quick transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting.
He became a beloved color commentator for Eagles radio broadcasts, offering insight and passion rooted in his playing experience.
Philadelphia fans know his voice as well as they once knew his deep routes.
His connection to the city never faded.
He remained part of the Eagles’ fabric — both on and off the field.
By the Numbers
- Born: May 14, 1959
- Position: Wide Receiver
- Drafted: 1982 (2nd Round, Philadelphia Eagles)
- 5× Pro Bowl Selection
- 6,464 Career Receiving Yards
- 61 Career Touchdowns
- First Eagle with 1,400+ Receiving Yards in a Season
An Eagles Standard
The Eagles franchise has featured many talented receivers over the decades, but Mike Quick remains one of the most impactful of his era.
He represented:
- Big-play explosiveness
- Smooth route running
- Consistent production
- Loyalty to Philadelphia
He helped carry the offense in the mid-1980s and provided fans with moments they still replay decades later.
The Legacy of Smooth Speed
Mike Quick didn’t need dramatic celebrations.
His game spoke loudly enough.
He ran past defenders with elegance.
He caught passes in stride.
He delivered in prime-time moments.
On his birthday, Eagles fans remember the deep strikes, the overtime heroics, and the No. 82 jersey flying downfield at Veterans Stadium.
Happy Birthday, Mike Quick — forever smooth, forever explosive, forever part of Philadelphia football history.
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