Gary Zimmerman (born December 13, 1961) was a three-year letterman at the University of Oregon from 1980 to 1983. He is one of the greatest offensive lineman to come out of the state.
Zimmerman was named the Pac-10 offensive lineman of the year in 1983 and received the coveted Morris Trophy. That award was voted on by opposing defensive lineman, a true show of respect. Gary liked it that way, never had much to say, always preferring to help his fellow lineman succeed. He was also selected to a pair of all-America teams and played in the Japan Bowl and Hula Bowl All-Star games.
Gary was drafted in the first round of the supplemental draft in 1984 by the New York Giants but ended up playing in the USFL for two years for the Los Angeles Express.
He then entered the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings and began a twelve-year career that ended with the Denver Broncos. Gary was named the NFL Lineman of the Year in 1997. He was selected to seven Pro Bowl appearances in his career and was selected All-NFL five times. He was a personal favorite of John Elway and was a key member of the offensive line for the 1998 Super Bowl Champion Denver Broncos.
Zimmerman was well-known for starting the practice of the Denver offensive line not speaking to the media. Ironically, after his retirement, he was an analyst on UO broadcasts.
Gary Zimmerman is a member of the University of Oregon Athletic Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He is also on the Bronco's Ring of Honor.