There have been better quarterbacks in the history of the CFL than Jackier Parker. There have been better running backs in the history of the CFL than Jackie Parkers. Parker, however, is probably the best all-around player in league history. There were no national all-stars until 1963 which was near the end of Parker's career, but he was an eight time Wesern All-Star, three at running back (1954, 1957 and 1959) and five at quarterback (1955, 1956, 1958, 1960 and 1961). Parker was als oth regular punter in Edmonton for several seasons and was even pressed into duty to do placekicking.
The graduate of Mississipi State joined the Edmonton Eskimos, the team is most associated with, in 1954 and along with greats like Johnny Bright and Normie Kwong, he led the Edmonton club to three consecutive Grey Cups in 1954, 55 and 56. After his glory years with Edmonton from 1954 to 1962, Parker played three years in Toronto (1963-65). Jackie came out of retirement while coaching in BC in 1968 when injuries struck the Lions at quarterback to give fans just one more glimpse of his talent. Jackie Parker was a three time Most Outstanding Player, winning the honour in 1957, 58 and 60 and is a member of the CFL Hall of Fame. There is little doubt that Jackie Parker was one of the greatest players to ever play in the CFL. Jackie Parker passed away on November 7, 2006.
