About Jon Corto

Jon Corto: From the NFL to Entrepreneurial Success in Buffalo

Buffalo, NY, has a way of celebrating its local heroes—those who put their heart into everything they do, both on and off the field. Among them is Jon Corto, a hometown standout who has left his mark as both a professional athlete and a community-focused entrepreneur. Born on September 13, 1984, in Orchard Park, NY, Jon’s rise from a football-loving kid to a Buffalo Bills icon and innovative businessman is a story that’s as inspiring as it is quintessentially Buffalo.

From Orchard Park to the NFL

Growing up just a stone’s throw from the stadium where he would one day suit up, Jon Corto had football in his blood. A graduate of Orchard Park High School, Jon excelled on the field and dreamed of playing for the Buffalo Bills, the team he cheered for as a kid. After high school, Jon attended Sacred Heart University, where he played college football and quickly made a name for himself.

By senior year, Jon was Sacred Heart’s defensive backbone, racking up 104 tackles and earning All-American honors. He finished his college career as the program’s second all-time leading tackler with an impressive 300 tackles and 15 sacks. It was clear that Jon was destined for bigger things—even if the NFL wasn’t knocking on his door just yet.

Living the Buffalo Bills Dream

Jon’s NFL career began in 2007 when the Buffalo Bills signed him as an undrafted free agent. For a local kid who grew up loving the team, it was nothing short of a dream come true. Though he started on the practice squad, Jon’s determination and talent soon earned him a spot on the active roster.

From 2008 to 2010, Jon played in 43 games and became a key member of the special teams unit. Fans admired him not only for his work ethic but also for his tenacity on the field. He embodied the grit and determination that Buffalo is known for, and the community couldn’t have been prouder to call him one of their own.

Unfortunately, injuries cut Jon’s football career short, and he was released by the Bills in 2012. But if there’s one thing Jon Corto has always been, it’s resilient.

A Pivot to Entrepreneurship

After retiring from the NFL, Jon and his wife, Jen, founded Buffalo Strive Vending, a full-service vending company that prioritizes healthy snack options. The idea was born from their desire to make a positive impact on the community while promoting better lifestyle choices.

Buffalo Strive Vending has grown into a thriving business that serves schools, workplaces, and public spaces across the region. By offering customizable vending solutions that focus on nutrition, Jon and Jen have carved out a unique niche in the industry. Their work demonstrates the same dedication and vision that Jon brought to his football career—and it’s paying off.

Giving Back to the Buffalo Community

Jon’s love for Buffalo goes beyond football and business. He remains deeply involved in the local community, supporting various initiatives and inspiring young athletes to chase their dreams. Whether through his work with Buffalo Strive Vending or by simply being a hands-on dad to his three children, Jon exemplifies the values of teamwork, perseverance, and kindness.

Buffalo has always been a city that values hard work and heart, and Jon Corto is a shining example of those principles. From the roar of the stadium to the quiet hum of a vending machine, Jon’s contributions to his hometown remind us that success comes in many forms—and that every chapter can be an opportunity to make a difference.

A Legacy of Dedication

Jon Corto’s story resonates far beyond sports. It’s a tale of dreaming big, giving back, and never losing sight of where you come from. Whether on the gridiron or in the business world, his resilience and passion have made him a Buffalo icon.

For anyone looking for inspiration, Jon’s path offers an important lesson. Success isn’t just about where you end up—it’s about how you use your platform to uplift others. From Orchard Park to the Buffalo Bills to Buffalo Strive Vending, Jon Corto has shown that true greatness lies in never forgetting your roots.