Gerald Ostroski Jr. (born July 12, 1970) is an American former professional football player who was an offensive lineman for the Buffalo Bills in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Tulsa Golden Hurricane.

College career

After a standout high school career[1] at Owen J. Roberts High School, Jerry Ostroski played college football at The University of Tulsa, starting every game as a sophomore, junior, and senior. He was selected first-team All-American in 1991 after leading TU to a 10–2 season and victory in the Freedom Bowl. In 1999, Ostroski was named to Tulsa's All-Century Team.[2] On October 27, 2018, Tulsa retired Ostroski’s No. 55 jersey.[3]

Professional career

Ostroski was selected in the tenth round of the 1992 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs.[4] Ostroski played 106 games (8 years) in the NFL, all with the Bills; he started 102 games at the center, offensive guard, and offensive tackle positions. In his 7th year, 2000, the last of three under head coach Wade Phillips, Ostroski was the starting center in all 16 games.[5] However, in 2001, Ostroski showed his versatility again and moved to right guard.

After recovering from a broken leg in the 2001 preseason, he injured a knee late in the season versus the Atlanta Falcons. Ostroski won the Ed Block Courage Award[6] in 2001.[7]

Due to his knee injury, Ostroski retired on August 27, 2002.[8] At the time of his retirement, he was the longest serving member of the Buffalo Bills. Ostroki's durability and versatility are illustrated by the number of games stated at four different positions: 34 at center, 32 at right guard, 26 at right tackle and 10 at left guard.[9]

References

source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerry_Ostroski