Dan Pastorini

Selected third overall by the Houston Oilers in the 1971 NFL Draft, Dan Pastorini established himself as a dominant quarterback during his thirteen-season National Football League career. Previously demonstrating his versatility, Pastorini earned second-team honors on the 1970 Little All-America college football team and was drafted by the New York Mets in 1967 for his college baseball prowess, ultimately choosing to pursue football. As the starting quarterback for the Houston Oilers from 1971 to 1979, Pastorini was renowned for his exceptional durability, famously playing through significant injuries. His on-field excellence was recognized with a selection to the 1975 AFC Pro Bowl Team.

He became only the third individual to break the 270-mph barrier in a Top Fuel Dragster and secured the prestigious NHRA Southern Nationals Event Championship in 1986. Beyond the sports arena, Pastorini diversified his career into entertainment, including acting roles in various films and television productions, and a memorable feature in Playgirl magazine. In 2011, he authored his candid autobiography, ‘Taking Flak: My Life in the Fast Lane,’ offering a comprehensive look at his multifaceted journey across professional sports and beyond. Leveraging his high-profile career, Pastorini has established a strong reputation as a respected businessman and dedicated philanthropist.

Currently, Dan Pastorini resides and works in Houston, where he continues to be involved in various high-profile projects and extensive community work, embodying a legacy of diverse ventures and commitment to philanthropy.