His Dad wanted him to be a quarterback or a defensive lineman. His Boulder Fairview High School Coach Sam Pagano said, “Tony’s an offensive lineman.” Tony Boselli went on to become a Colorado prep first-team all-state selection and a high school All-American as an offensive lineman. The 6’8” 305-pound Boselli was known for his work ethic on the gridiron and in the classroom. He was heavily recruited by colleges around the country. He settled on the USC Trojans.
From 1991-94, Boselli made the most of his time at USC. He became a two-time All American, a three-time PAC 10 All-Academic, led the Trojans to three consecutive bowl games including victories in the 1993 Freedom Bowl and 1995 Cotton Bowl. He earned the Morris Trophy as the Pac-10’s best offensive lineman in the 1994 season. He earned a finance degree at USC and graduated with a 3.5 GPA.
According to Sports Illustrated, College Football Hall of Famer and USC Coach John Robinson said Boselli was “the best college offensive lineman I ever had.” Boselli continued to receive accolades for his craft and was named to USC’s Athletic Hall of Fame, College Football Hall of Fame and the Cottom Bowl Hall of Fame.
When the 1995 NFL draft took place, it was the start of many first for Boselli. He became the first-ever draft pick for the expansion Jacksonville Jaguars, and the highest-paid rookie offensive lineman in NFL history. In the renowned seven-year career with the Jags, he helped lead Jacksonville to four consecutive playoff appearances, two AFC title games while protecting QB Mark Brunell and opening holes for running back Fred Taylor. He is a member of the 1990s Hall of Fame All-Decade Team and garnered five Pro Bowl selections. In 1998, Boselli was so popular that area McDonald’s carried the “Boselli Burger”, filled with three hamburger patties, lettuce and tomatoes. In the 2001 season, Boselli suffered a shoulder injury and landed on injured reserve the rest of the season. After being chosen in the 2002 expansion draft by the Houston Texans, Boselli never saw the playing field, spending the entire season on the injured reserve list.
He and his wife Anji were immersed in and embraced by the Jacksonville community. The couple started the Boselli Foundation in 1995 to work with at-risk youth and help them to build self-esteem, success at home and at play. The charity is still a big part of Jacksonville today. Additionally, Tony is still part of the Jaguars radio broadcast team. Boselli’s legacy was cemented as one of best offensive lineman in NFL history, as he received the crowing jewel recognition being named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame class of 2022, the first Jaguar with a bust in Canton.
By Mary Kay Mauro, Sports Broadcaster
