The Making of The Magician: How Marlin Briscoe broke the AFL's QB color barrier In the second installment of our series about the life and legacy of Marlin Briscoe, modern American pro football’s first Black starting quarterback, we’re focusing on how he continued to play the position as he transitioned to the pros. By Ben Swanson Feb 24, 2021 In 1968, a small quarterback from Omaha, Nebraska, took the field for the Broncos and made history as modern American pro football's first Black starting quarterback. He dazzled and delighted crowds at Mile High, but a year later, he was gone from Denver. As we celebrate Black History Month, we're taking a closer look at the life and legacy of Marlin Briscoe. Today's tale recalls how he put himself in position to make history in spite of the pressure of racist stereotypes.