John Gonzaga
John Louis Gonzaga was an American football offensive lineman in the National Football League for the San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, and Detroit Lions. He also was a member of the Denver Broncos in the American Football League. He did not play college football.
Early years
Gonzaga attended Mount Diablo High School, but did not attend college, instead going to work to help support his family. He continued to be involved in the sport by playing sandlot football.Professional career
San Francisco 49ers
On October 21, 1956, he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the San Francisco 49ers, though he never played a down of college football and he was working in a steel mill.As a rookie, he played at middle linebacker. In 1957, he was used as a two-way right tackle. In 1958, he was moved to left tackle, where he started for two seasons.
Dallas Cowboys
Gonzaga was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the 1960 NFL expansion draft and became the first starter at right defensive end in franchise history, while also leading the team in sacks.On August 21, 1961, after asking to be traded, he was sent to the Detroit Lions in exchange for offensive guard Bob Grottkau and rookie Houston Entwine.