The 28-year-old quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders, Gardner Minshew II, was born to parents who both had athletic backgrounds. They likely instilled his career ambitions and have been supporting him ever since.
Gardner Minshew II, born May 16, 1996, is an NFL quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders.
Minshew began his college football career with the Northwest Mississippi Rangers, leading them to an NJCAA National Championship.
He later played for East Carolina and finished his collegiate career with the Washington State Cougars, where he set Pac-12 single-season records for passing yards and completions, earning the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
Drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Minshew impressed as a rookie, setting a franchise record for rookie passing touchdowns during his two seasons with the team.
After serving as a backup for two seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, he joined the Indianapolis Colts in 2023.
In Indianapolis, Minshew thrived as a starter, achieving career highs and earning his first Pro Bowl selection.
In 2024, he signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, continuing to build his reputation as a dynamic quarterback.
Gardner Minshew Had Parents With Athletic Backgrounds
Gardner Minshew’s parents, Flint and Kim Minshew, played significant roles in shaping his path both on and off the football field.
Flint Minshew, a contractor, coached Gardner in his early football days. He likely fostered his passion for the game.
Flint’s influence extended beyond coaching, building a strong bond with his son through their shared love of sports.
On the other hand, Kim Minshew, his mother, a middle school math teacher, has a sports background as well.
She played college basketball at Mississippi State University, which instilled a competitive spirit in the family.
Kim supported Gardner throughout his journey, expressing pride and amazement at his NFL success.
She frequently highlighted his work ethic, noting his habit of drawing up plays at home, even as a child.
Furthermore, Kim also talked about her son’s mustache, which has become iconic now.
The Minshew family remains proud of their Mississippi roots, while also celebrating their connections to Gardner’s collegiate and professional career stops, particularly at Washington State, which became a second home for them.
Gardner Minshew’s hard work and success have made his family and hometown immensely proud.
His father, Flint, expressed pride in Gardner’s tireless efforts, while his mother, Kim, highlighted the unwavering support from their hometown, Brandon, Mississippi.
Furthermore, Kim added that the community celebrated Gardner’s accomplishments with events like “Dress Up Like Gardner Minshew Day,” where students and teachers wore mustaches and Washington State gear.
Known affectionately as the “Mississippi Mustache,” his impact has resonated statewide.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Gardner Minshew’s grandfather wanted to name him Beowulf, but his parents rejected the idea.
- He goes by Minshew II rather than Minshew Jr. at his mother’s request. She did not want her son to be nicknamed “Junior”.
- Callie, Gardner Minshew’s sister, played volleyball at Mississippi State.
