National Football Foundation

A native of Glen Ridge, N.J., Gary Cuozzo played quarterback for the University of Virginia from 1960-62. A dominating force and agile at 6-foot-1 and 196 pounds, Cuozzo was named the UPI “Back of the Week” several times during his 1961 and 1962 seasons. Academically, he maintained a 3.68 GPA while managing a challenging pre-med work load. He belonged to the Dean’s list, Phi Beta Kappa and every other honor society that UVA offered.

In 1963, Cuozzo began his NFL career with the Baltimore Colts, serving as the back-up to Johnny Unitas. When Unitas was injured in 1965, the UVA alum got his first start and threw for five touchdowns – something that has yet to be matched by a first time starter. Cuozzo was traded in 1966 to the expansion franchise New Orleans Saints, becoming their first starting quarterback. He subsequently played with the Minnesota Vikings and St. Louis Cardinals before retiring after his 10 years in the NFL.

He moved back to New Jersey in 1973, and he started his own orthodontics practice, which he ran for 28 years. Cuozzo gave back to the athletic community through his position as chairman of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes from 1995-98. He still resides in New Jersey with his family.