(Born October 21, 1978) A true hometown hero, Joey Harrington has been front and center in the Oregon sports world for nearly two decades and always proud to call Portland home.

It was meant to be. The son and grandson of former collegiate quarterbacks, Harrington would blossom as a signal-caller at Central Catholic High School. 4,000 yards and 50 touchdowns later, Joey would follow in his father’s footsteps to the University of Oregon. His timing was perfect.

Harrington was the unquestioned leader during the beginning of the golden age of Ducks football. He led Oregon to 25 wins in three seasons, including bowl victories against Texas and Colorado. Harrington’s 7,000-plus total yards still ranks him as one of the top offensive producers in school history.

The rest of America got to know him as Joey Heisman in the fall of 2001 when a unique Heisman trophy marketing campaign landed his likeness on a giant billboard in Times Square.

Harrington was 4th in Heisman balloting but also took home plenty of honors including 1st team All-America and PAC-10 offensive player of the year.

All of that attention put Joey in the express lane to the NFL. The 3rd overall pick in the 2002 draft, Harrington was elevated to starter in his rookie year. Harrington would play 6 pro seasons, starting a total of 76 games for the Lions, Dolphins, Falcons and Saints.

Even after football, Joey Harrington remains in the public eye as a talented broadcast commentator and a dedicated philanthropist. The Harrington Family foundation supports youth activities and education.

A talented musician, dedicated father and always positive, Joey Harrington is the essence of the favorite son in the Rose City.