In the past, small-school quarterbacks often drew first-round draft attention, but a prolific passer from Portland State showed that strong arm talent can succeed anywhere. Neil Lomax set NCAA records in Mouse Davis’s renowned Run and Shoot offense, showcasing his arm strength. He entered the 1981 NFL Draft, where the St. Louis Cardinals picked him in the second round (33rd overall). With Jim Hart as a franchise legend in the locker room, Lomax was positioned as the heir and quickly proved that his quick release could uplift an entire team.
Lomax had a traditional drop-back frame, a quick release, and a knack for deep balls. In a tough, physical NFC East, he thrived by speeding up the game, confusing safeties, and allowing deep routes to unfold. With talented receivers like Roy Green and Pat Tilley, Lomax made St. Louis one of the most explosive passing teams in the league.
After earning PFWA All-Rookie honors and taking over late in his first 1981 season, Lomax officially became the starting quarterback in 1983. He had a standout 1984 season, setting a personal best with 4,614 passing yards and 28 touchdowns, which earned him his first Pro Bowl selection. His passing total that year was one of the most impressive single-season performances in league history at the time. Lomax's 4,614 yards in 1984 set a franchise record and marked a period when his deep throws were considered among the most dangerous in professional football.
Lomax delivered another masterclass during the strike-shortened 1987 season. Pacing the NFL with 3,387 passing yards and 275 completions, he threw 24 touchdown passes in just 12 games, earning his second Pro Bowl selection. He remained a steady presence under center as the franchise relocated to Phoenix in 1988, throwing for nearly 3,400 yards in his debut desert campaign.
Sadly, severe hip arthritis ended his career at his physical prime. The joint deterioration sidelined him for the entire 1989 season. Despite intense rehabilitation efforts, he couldn't overcome the pain, leading to his retirement in early 1990 at only 30 years old. Over his career, Lomax achieved 22,771 passing yards, 136 touchdown passes, and 10 rushing touchdowns in 108 regular-season games.