The First Quarterback of the New Orleans Saints: Gary Cuozzo

The New Orleans Saints, an expansion team in the National Football League (NFL), began their journey in 1967. As with any new team, the selection of the first quarterback to lead the offense was a crucial decision. In the case of the Saints, their inaugural quarterback was Gary Cuozzo.

Acquisition and Background

Cuozzo’s path to becoming the Saints’ first quarterback was shaped by his prior experience with the Baltimore Colts. Before joining the Saints, Cuozzo served as a backup to the legendary Johnny Unitas for four seasons. This experience provided Cuozzo with valuable insights and a solid foundation for his future role as a starting quarterback.

The Saints’ First Round Draft Pick

In the expansion draft leading up to their inaugural season, the Saints acquired Cuozzo with their first of two first-round draft picks. This move demonstrated the team’s confidence in Cuozzo’s abilities and their belief that he could effectively lead the offense. The selection of Cuozzo as the first quarterback of the Saints marked an important milestone for the franchise.

Short-Lived Tenure

Despite the initial optimism surrounding Cuozzo’s arrival, his tenure with the Saints was short-lived. He played only one season with the team before moving on to other opportunities. While his time in New Orleans may have been brief, Cuozzo’s role as the first quarterback of the Saints holds historical significance in the team’s early years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gary Cuozzo was the first quarterback of the New Orleans Saints. Acquired through a trade with the Baltimore Colts, Cuozzo brought with him valuable experience as a backup to Johnny Unitas. Although his time with the team was limited to a single season, his selection marked an important milestone for the Saints as an expansion franchise.

Sources:

[1] Nosaintshistory.com. “Gary Cuozzo – The First Saints Quarterback.” Available at: https://www.nosaintshistory.com/gary-cuozzo-first-saints-quarterback/

[2] Wikipedia. “List of New Orleans Saints starting quarterbacks.” Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_New_Orleans_Saints_starting_quarterbacks

[3] 710keel.com. “Every Starting Quarterback For The New Orleans Saints Since 2000.” Available at: https://710keel.com/every-starting-quarterback-for-the-new-orleans-saints-since-2000/

FAQs

Who was the first quarterback of the New Orleans Saints?

The first quarterback of the New Orleans Saints was Gary Cuozzo.

What was Gary Cuozzo’s background before joining the Saints?

Prior to joining the Saints, Cuozzo served as a backup to Johnny Unitas for four seasons with the Baltimore Colts.

How did the Saints acquire Gary Cuozzo?

The Saints acquired Gary Cuozzo through a trade with the Baltimore Colts, using their first-round draft pick in the expansion draft.

How long did Gary Cuozzo play as the Saints’ quarterback?

Gary Cuozzo played only one season as the Saints’ quarterback before moving on to other opportunities.

What significance does Gary Cuozzo hold in the history of the New Orleans Saints?

Gary Cuozzo holds historical significance as the first quarterback of the New Orleans Saints, marking an important milestone for the franchise as an expansion team.