Joe Cocozzo

Joe Cocozzo (born August 7, 1970) is an American former professional football player who was an offensive guard for the San Diego Chargers of the National Football League (NFL) from 1993 to 1997. He played college football for the Michigan Wolverines from 1989 to 1992, earning second-team All-American honors in 1992.

Early life Cocozzo was born in Mechanicville, New York, in 1970. He attended Mechanicville High School. He was a star football player for the Mechanicville Red Raiders. He started 32 games at right guard—eight in 1990, 12 in 1991, and 12 in 1992. He also played in the 1993 Senior Bowl.

Professional career

Cocozzo was selected by the San Diego Chargers in the third round (64th overall pick) of the 1993 NFL draft. In July 1993, he signed a three-year contract with the Chargers. He played five seasons for the Chargers from 1993 to 1997. He appeared in 77 NFL games, including 48 games as a starter.

He signed with the Washington Redskins as a free agent in June 1998. He injured his elbow during training camp and was cut with an injury settlement. After rehabilitating for a year, he went to training camp with the New Orleans Saints in 1999. He broke ribs on the first day of training camp when he was hit by a running back. He announced his official retirement before the 2000 season. He later married Amanda Marshall. He and his wife have two sons, Anthony and James.