The Colquitt family, celebrated for their exceptional punting prowess in football, holds a legendary reputation, particularly among Tennessee Volunteers fans and football enthusiasts nationwide. Known as the “First Family of Fourth Down,” they have made their mark at the collegiate and professional levels. Now, this iconic family is exploring a creative new venture.
Craig Colquitt, the family patriarch and former NFL punter, has turned to painting. His debut artwork, featuring Smokey, the Tennessee Volunteers’ beloved mascot, standing in front of the historic Ayres Hall, incorporates meaningful references to the Colquitt family’s football legacy. This limited-edition piece is not only a celebration of their deep ties to Tennessee but also a gesture of generosity, as a significant portion of each sale will support the Tennessee Fund, benefiting student-athletes. Each painting comes personally signed by Craig and his two sons, Dustin and Britton, continuing the family’s tradition of unity and excellence.
Craig’s connection to the University of Tennessee runs deep. A Knoxville native, he played for the Vols from 1974 to 1977, earning back-to-back All-SEC honors in 1976 and 1977. Following a stellar collegiate career, he joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he spent six seasons and contributed to two Super Bowl-winning teams in 1978 and 1979.
The Colquitt legacy extended further through Craig’s brother, Jimmy, who also punted for Tennessee in the early 1980s before a brief NFL career with the Seattle Seahawks.
Dustin Colquitt, Craig’s eldest son, carried on the family tradition with a standout career at Tennessee from 2000 to 2004. During his tenure, he earned First Team All-SEC honors twice and was named an All-American in 2003. His remarkable performances caught the attention of the Kansas City Chiefs, who selected him in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft. Dustin spent 15 seasons with the Chiefs, becoming a two-time Pro Bowler and playing a crucial role in their Super Bowl LIV victory in 2019. After brief stints with the Steelers, Jaguars, Falcons, and Browns, Dustin retired in 2021, capping an illustrious NFL career.
Britton Colquitt, the youngest member of this football dynasty, followed a similar path. Playing for Tennessee from 2004 to 2008, Britton earned First Team All-SEC honors in 2006 and Second Team All-SEC honors in 2007. His consistent performance led to a 12-year NFL career, predominantly with the Denver Broncos. Britton was instrumental in the Broncos’ Super Bowl 50 victory during the 2015-16 season, a triumph led by quarterback Peyton Manning. He later played for the Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings before retiring.
Both Dustin and Britton are proud alumni of Bearden High School in Knoxville, where their football journeys began.
The Colquitt family’s unparalleled contributions to football are matched by their dedication to their community and alma mater. Craig’s artistic endeavor not only reflects his creativity but also reinforces the family’s commitment to giving back. By supporting the Tennessee Fund through this initiative, the Colquitts continue to inspire fans and athletes alike, both on and off the field.
For those interested in owning a piece of Colquitt and Tennessee history, Craig’s painting can be purchased online or by calling the provided number. This project serves as a reminder of the family’s enduring legacy and the impact they have had on the Tennessee community, cementing their status as icons in the world of sports and beyond.
