Tim Hasselbeck spent more than a decade in the National Football League, serving as a backup quarterback and long snapper for several clubs. His career path took him through multiple cities, which often leads fans to ask, who did Tim Hasselbeck play for.
Below is a snapshot of his team history, playing time, and key roles during his professional tenure.
| Team | Years | Role | Notable Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York Giants | 2001–2003 | Backup QB / Long Snapper | Spent three seasons on the roster behind Kerry Collins |
| Indianapolis Colts | 2004 | Backup QB | Brief stint backing up Peyton Manning |
| Washington Redskins | 2005 | Backup QB | Shared duties with Todd Collins under coach Joe Gibbs |
| Buffalo Bills | 2006–2007 | Backup QB / Long Snapper | Primary backup for J. P. Losman and Trent Edwards |
| New England Patriots | 2008 | Backup QB / Long Snapper | Filled in behind Tom Brady during preseason and special teams |
New York Giants Tenure
Hasselbeck’s first major league opportunity arrived when the New York Giants selected him in the 2001 NFL Draft. During his time in New York, he learned the intricacies of an NFL backup role while long snapping on special teams. He remained with the Giants for three seasons, providing depth behind starter Kerry Collins.
Indianapolis Colts and Washington Redskins
In 2004, Hasselbeck moved to the Indianapolis Colts, where he supported Peyton Manning. The following year, he joined the Washington Redskins, again as a backup. At Washington, he worked closely with coach Joe Gibbs and shared emergency quarterback duties with Todd Collins.
Buffalo Bills and New England Patriots
Hasselbeck signed with the Buffalo Bills in 2006, serving as a backup during a transitional period for the franchise. He later joined the New England Patriots in 2008, where he contributed on special teams and was part of a deep quarterback group featuring Tom Brady.
Playing Style and Career Contributions
Although Tim Hasselbeck never started a regular season game, his value came from durability and reliability. He handled long snapping duties consistently and was prepared to step in at any time. Teams valued his professionalism, football IQ, and willingness to support the starter regardless of limited action.
Key Takeaways
- Played for six NFL teams over eight seasons
- Longest tenure was with the New York Giants
- Served as both backup quarterback and long snapper
- Provided depth in multiple divisions and offensive schemes
- Valued for his consistency, football intelligence, and special teams contribution
FAQ
Reader questions
Which team did Tim Hasselbeck play for the longest?
He spent the longest tenure with the New York Giants, from 2001 to 2003.
Did Tim Hasselbeck ever start an NFL game?
No, Hasselbeck did not start a regular season game during his NFL career.
What role did he have beyond quarterback?
He primarily served as a long snapper on special teams in addition to being a backup quarterback.
Which notable quarterbacks did he back up?
He backed up Kerry Collins, Peyton Manning, Todd Collins, J. P. Losman, Trent Edwards, and Tom Brady.