About Joe Licata

Growing Up in Buffalo

Joseph Licata was born on November 16th, 1992 in Buffalo, NY. He went to Williamsville South High School where he played football and basketball. He set the New York State Public High School Athletic Association record for career three-point field goals with 343 as a basketball player. He was also Buffalo News Player of the Year in 2010.

Playing at UB

After high school, Licata played for the University of Buffalo Bulls. In 2013, Licata and the Bulls had one of the best seasons the team has ever seen leading them to the 2013 Idaho Potato Bowl. When Licata’s college career ended in 2015, he became Buffalo’s career leader in both passing yards (9,485) and passing touchdowns (76).

Shooting for the NFL

After Licata was not drafted in the 2016 NFL draft, on May 16th, 2016, he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Cincinnati Bengals. He played a couple of times in preseason games, but was released on August 29th.

Football Coaching Career

On July 14th, 2017, Licata became as head coach and athletic director at Bishop Timon – St. Jude High School. On May 28th, 2021, Licata accepted a position to return to UB as an offensive analyst. On March 9th, 2022, Licata returned to Williamsville South High School as their football head coach.