Chillicothe High School Alumni
Chillicothe, Ohio (OH)
Greg Cook
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback
What is Greg Cook known for?
Gregory Lynn Cook, born on November 20, 1946, in Dayton, Ohio, was a remarkable American football player who notably played as a quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals during the 1969 and 1973 seasons. He spent most of his life in Chillicothe, Ohio. He is a proud alumnus of Chillicothe High School where he played baseball, basketball, and football.
Greg Cook's contribution to the sport was remarkable, considering his short professional career. He was selected 5th overall in the 1969 NFL/AFL draft, following an impressive performance in college football for the University of Cincinnati. Despite having his career prematurely ended due to recurring shoulder troubles, his performance left a lasting impression. In 2007, NFL Films honored his legacy by naming him the number one greatest NFL "one-shot wonder" of all time, referring to him as one of the biggest "what-ifs" in league history.
During his tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals, he showcased his exceptional talent, especially during the NFL/AFL 1969 season. His record that year was outstanding with 15 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Furthermore, he managed to accrue 1,895 yards, earning a passer rating of 87.6. This impressive debut earned him the 'AFL Rookie of the Year' award in 1969.
Even when sports medicine was not as advanced as it is today, Cook persisted through debilitating shoulder injuries for the love of the game and team spirit. His tenacity and dedication marked him as one of the most promising talents of the sport, but unfortunately, repeated shoulder injuries, specifically a torn rotator cuff and a partially detached biceps muscle, ended his career prematurely. Notably, his rookie records of 9.411 yards per pass attempt and 17.5 yards per completion still stand today.
Greg Cook's story remains a poignant reminder of talent, promise, determination, and the cruel game of fate in the realm of sports. His life came to an end on January 27, 2012, in Cincinnati, Ohio, but his legacy continues to inspire.