American professional football player, a National Football League (NFL) quarterback known for his efficiency in completing passes. Young also gained fame for his ability to elude defenders and to run with the football.
Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Young was educated at Brigham Young University (BYU). As starting quarterback at BYU in 1983, his senior year, he led the football team to an 11-1 win-loss record. After graduating in 1984, Young joined the Los Angeles Express of the United States Football League (USFL). In 1985 he began playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL. The Buccaneers traded him to the San Francisco 49ers in 1987. During his first four seasons with the 49ers, Young was the backup to acclaimed quarterback Joe Montana.
After becoming the starting quarterback for the 49ers in 1991, Young led the NFL in passing for a record four consecutive years (1991-1994). He led the 49ers to a victory in the Super Bowl (the NFL championship game) in 1995. Young was named the game's most valuable player after throwing six touchdown passes—a Super Bowl record. He was voted NFL player of the year in 1992 and 1994.