Bills player history: Looking back at wide receiver Steve Tasker

The Buffalo Bills have been in existence since 1960. Over 1,800 players and counting have worn a Bills uniform in a game. The rich history, splendid tapestry, good times, and bad times all bring us together every gameday. We have rooted for one-game wonders, fan-favorites, All-Pros, Pro Bowlers, and Hall of Famers. So, lets refresh your memories and remember another former Buffalo Bills player.

This week we are going to ‘remember a Bill’. The recurring piece that will jog your memories and bring back the fondness of watching this player put on the pads and play for our beloved Bills. Now, the players we will remember are not necessarily all-stars or hall of famers but just a someone that will make you stop and say, “hey, I remember him.”

This weeks remember a Bill: WR Steve Tasker

Drafted by the Houston Oilers in the 9th round in 1985, Steve Tasker played only 9 games for Houston before becoming a Buffalo Bill during the 1986 season. As a receiver his numbers may not jump out at you, but Steve Tasker “made his money” on special teams. On a team with so many stars on offense and defense, it is hard to argue Tasker wasn’t the star on special teams.

Tasker attended Dodge City Community College before transferring to Northwestern. Tasker finished his collegiate career with 1,055 combined return yards on punts and kickoffs. He even got involved in rugby too. Being named MVP at the Big 10 conference tournament. Tasker also holds the record of kickoff return average (24.3) for Northwestern football.

After being claimed off waivers during 1986 by the Bills, Tasker really elevated the special teams unit. Tasker has 204 career special teams tackles and seven blocked punts. He was named to 7 Pro Bowls, was the first special teams player to play in 7 Pro Bowls and the only special teamer to be named Pro Bowl MVP (1993).

Post playing career, Steve Tasker has lent his voice to the game of football. Broadcasting for CBS for NFL games and Buffalo Bills preseason games. After CBS, Tasker did color commentary on the Bills radio network with John Murphy for games, and now a days your mid afternoons can be filled by One Bills Live with hosts Chris Brown and Steve Tasker. You can also see him in some local car commercials.

Steve Tasker was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fames All-Time Team in 2000. Tasker was also inducted to the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame in 2001. He was then inducted into the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2005 and put on the Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame in 2007. Here is what Steve Tasker brought to the special teams table:

Steve Tasker, Buffalo Bills legend, special teams ace, fan favorite. Steve Tasker, we remember you fondly.

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