The First Quarterback of the New Orleans Saints: Gary Cuozzo

Gary Cuozzo holds a significant place in the history of the New Orleans Saints as their first starting quarterback. This article delves into Cuozzo’s career, his role with the Saints, and his impact on the team. The information presented in this article is based on credible sources such as the National Football Foundation, Wikipedia, and No Saints History.

Early Career and NFL Beginnings

Gary Cuozzo embarked on his NFL journey as a backup to legendary quarterback Johnny Unitas on the Baltimore Colts. After joining the Colts, Cuozzo patiently awaited an opportunity to showcase his skills. That moment arrived in 1965 when Unitas suffered an injury, paving the way for Cuozzo to make his mark.

In his first start as a professional quarterback, Cuozzo made history by setting a new NFL record for the most touchdown passes in a single game. This remarkable feat served as a testament to his talent and potential in the NFL.

The Arrival in New Orleans

In 1967, Cuozzo’s career took a new turn as he was traded to the New Orleans Saints. This move marked the beginning of his tenure as the first starting quarterback for the expansion franchise. The trade involved sending offensive lineman Butch Allison to the Saints, and it was a significant moment for both teams involved.

However, the trade had a lasting impact on the Saints. In exchange for Cuozzo, the Saints gave away the first overall pick in the 1967 NFL draft to the Colts. This pick turned out to be Michigan State All-American Bubba Smith, who went on to become a standout player for the Colts.

Transition to the Minnesota Vikings

After losing the starting job to Billy Kilmer later in the 1967 season, Cuozzo’s journey continued as he was traded to the Minnesota Vikings in January 1968. With the Vikings, Cuozzo found a new opportunity to showcase his skills. In 1970, he became the team’s starting quarterback and made a significant impact.

In the season opener of 1970, Cuozzo led the Vikings to a victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, earning him the NFC Player of the Week recognition. His contributions to the team helped solidify his place as a capable and accomplished quarterback in the NFL.

A Decade of Dedication

Gary Cuozzo’s NFL career spanned ten seasons, from 1963 to 1972. Throughout his time in the league, Cuozzo displayed his dedication and passion for the game. His contributions to the Baltimore Colts, New Orleans Saints, and Minnesota Vikings left a lasting impact on the teams and their fans.

Life After Football

Following his retirement from football in 1973, Cuozzo transitioned to a new chapter in his life. He started an orthodontics practice in Middletown Township, New Jersey. Cuozzo’s commitment to excellence on and off the field continued as he pursued a successful career in dentistry.

In conclusion, Gary Cuozzo’s role as the first starting quarterback for the New Orleans Saints holds a significant place in the team’s history. His journey from the Baltimore Colts to the Saints and later to the Minnesota Vikings showcased his talent, perseverance, and impact on the field. Cuozzo’s contributions to the NFL will always be remembered.

Sources

  1. Football Foundation: https://footballfoundation.org/hof_scholars.aspx?hof=875
  2. Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Cuozzo
  3. No Saints History: https://www.nosaintshistory.com/gary-cuozzo-first-saints-quarterback/

FAQs

Who was Gary Cuozzo?



Gary Cuozzo was a professional American football player who gained recognition as the first starting quarterback for the New Orleans Saints, an expansion franchise in the NFL.

How long did Gary Cuozzo play for the New Orleans Saints?

Gary Cuozzo played for the New Orleans Saints from 1967 to 1968.

What was the significance of Gary Cuozzo’s NFL career before joining the Saints?

Prior to joining the New Orleans Saints, Gary Cuozzo began his NFL career as a backup to Johnny Unitas on the Baltimore Colts. He made a notable impact when he replaced an injured Unitas in 1965 and set a new NFL record for the most touchdown passes in a single game in his first start.

How did Gary Cuozzo end up with the New Orleans Saints?

Gary Cuozzo was traded to the New Orleans Saints in 1967 as part of a deal that involved sending offensive lineman Butch Allison to the Saints. This trade marked Cuozzo’s transition to becoming the first starting quarterback in the franchise’s history.

What was the outcome of the trade between the Colts and the Saints involving Gary Cuozzo?



The trade between the Colts and the Saints, which included Gary Cuozzo, had a significant impact on both teams. The Saints gave away the first overall pick in the 1967 NFL draft to the Colts, who used it to select Bubba Smith, a standout player for the Colts.

What happened to Gary Cuozzo after his time with the Saints?

After losing the starting job to Billy Kilmer later in the 1967 season, Gary Cuozzo was traded to the Minnesota Vikings in January 1968. He became the Vikings’ starting quarterback in 1970 and made notable contributions, including being named NFC Player of the Week for leading the team to a victory in the season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs.

How long was Gary Cuozzo’s NFL career?

Gary Cuozzo played a total of ten NFL seasons, from 1963 to 1972.

What did Gary Cuozzo do after retiring from football?

Following his retirement from football in 1973, Gary Cuozzo started an orthodontics practice in Middletown Township, New Jersey.