Benjamin Anthony DiNucci Bio
Benjamin Anthony DiNucci is an American former professional football quarterback. He played college football for the Pittsburgh Panthers and James Madison Dukes and was selected by the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft. DiNucci has also played for the Seattle Sea Dragons in the XFL in 2023, leading them to the playoffs. He is currently a college football commentator for CBS Sports.
Early Life and Background
Benjamin DiNucci was born on November 24, 1996, in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. He attended Pine-Richland High School in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, where he began to make a name for himself as a quarterback. As a sophomore, he became the starting quarterback, and by his senior year, he threw for a WPIAL-record 4,269 yards, becoming the first player in Pennsylvania history to throw for over 4,000 yards in a season. He achieved 46 touchdowns and 9 interceptions, leading his team to a 15–1 record and a state AAAA championship game appearance. His impressive performance earned him the 2014–2015 Gatorade Player of the Year for Pennsylvania and other accolades, solidifying his reputation as a talented player. DiNucci finished his high school career with 548 completions out of 809 attempts, totaling 7,619 yards and 72 touchdowns.
DiNucci initially intended to enroll at the University of Pennsylvania but later decommitted and accepted a football scholarship from the University of Pittsburgh after Pat Narduzzi was hired as the new head coach. He played for the Pittsburgh Panthers from 2015 to 2017 before transferring to James Madison University, where he continued to excel on the field.
Path to American Football
At the University of Pittsburgh, DiNucci began as a backup quarterback. His first significant playing time came during the 2016 Pinstripe Bowl when he relieved an injured Nathan Peterman. In his sophomore year, he became the starting quarterback but faced competition from true freshman Kenny Pickett. After a season at Pittsburgh, he transferred to James Madison University, where he became a standout player. During his junior year, he started all 13 games, throwing for 2,275 yards and 16 touchdowns, earning third-team All-CAA honors. His senior year was particularly impressive, as he led the Dukes to the FCS Championship Game, passing for 3,441 yards and 29 touchdowns while earning the CAA Offensive Player of the Year award.
Benjamin Anthony DiNucci Career
Early Career (2020)
DiNucci was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft, being the 231st overall pick. He made his NFL debut on October 19, 2020, against the Arizona Cardinals. DiNucci’s first start came on October 31, 2020, against the Philadelphia Eagles, where he completed 21 of 40 passes for 180 yards. Despite the Cowboys losing the game, DiNucci’s performance showcased his potential as a quarterback.
Breakthrough (2023)
In 2023, DiNucci signed with the Seattle Sea Dragons in the XFL, where he had a breakout season. He started 10 games, leading the team to a playoff berth with a 7–3 record. DiNucci led the league in passing yards with 2,671, attempts with 374, and completions with 272, while ranking second in passing touchdowns with 20. His performance earned him recognition as one of the top quarterbacks in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
DiNucci’s signature achievements include being the XFL passing yards leader in 2023 and earning the CAA Offensive Player of the Year award in 2019. His career at James Madison University was marked by significant milestones, including leading the Dukes to the FCS Championship Game.
Benjamin Anthony DiNucci Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Benjamin DiNucci has received several notable awards and recognitions, including being named the CAA Offensive Player of the Year and earning All-CAA honors during his time at James Madison University.
Benjamin Anthony DiNucci Awards Won
DiNucci’s accolades include being the XFL passing yards leader in 2023 and receiving first-team All-CAA honors in 2019. His achievements reflect his skill and dedication to the sport.
Benjamin Anthony DiNucci Family
Information regarding Benjamin DiNucci’s family background is not publicly available.
Personal Life
DiNucci is currently a college football commentator for CBS Sports, where he shares his insights and expertise on the game. He made his debut as a commentator during the Bucknell–Air Force game on August 30, 2025.
