Danny Wuerffel

Danny Wuerffel is a College Football Hall of Famer and a devoted humanitarian who brings his passion for community leadership and advocacy to the Concussion & CTE Foundation.

A two-time All-American quarterback, Wuerffel won the 1996 Heisman Trophy and led the Florida Gators to their first national championship before playing six seasons in the NFL.

Since his retirement from football, Wuerffel has dedicated his life to serving others. As the executive director of Desire Street Ministries, he empowers leaders to revitalize under-resourced neighborhoods across the American South.

Established in 2005, the Wuerffel Trophy is college football’s premier award for community service. Reflecting Wuerffel’s legacy of using influence to serve others, it is awarded annually to the FBS player who best combines exemplary service with leadership and achievement on and off the field.

He founded the Wuerffel Foundation in 2020 to inspire greater service and unity by raising funds, celebrating excellence in service, and providing resources for other community leaders.

Wuerffel’s commitment to service extends to his football family. Recognizing the long-term health challenges faced by former athletes, he joined several former Gators to  help launch the University of Florida Alumni HelpLine in 2024. As a HelpLine ambassador, he is proud to connect UF alumni with medical and mental health resources, clinical research opportunities, and support groups for former athletes and caregivers navigating concussion, PCS, and suspected CTE.