Phil Simms, quarterback (1979-93)
Simms had a rough first five seasons in the NFL, plagued by injuries and inconsistent play. He had very little help on offense until he mid-1980s when he became one of the best passers in the NFL.
Unfortunately for Simms, he was hamstrung by Bill Parcells’ conservative approach to offense and the swirling winds of the Meadowlands. He could sling with the best of them when afforded the chance, though, such as in his record-setting MVP performance in Super Bowl XXI.