Testaverde was a star quarterback at the University of Miami, winning the Heisman Trophy in 1986. He was the first overall draft pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1987 NFL draft.

In 1988, Testaverde became the Bucs' starting quarterback, throwing a 47.6% completion rate for 3,240 yards and 13 touchdowns. His numbers continued to improve and, by the 1992 season, his last with Tampa Bay, Testaverde threw for a 57.5% completion rate for 2,554 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Testaverde then spent five seasons with the Cleveland Browns, three in Cleveland, followed by two with the Baltimore Ravens, before finally settling with the New York Jets in 1998. In his first season with the Jets, Testaverde flourished, completing 61.5% of his passes with 29 touchdowns, arguably his best season in the NFL. 

After playing with the Jets, Testaverde had a one year stint with Dallas before returning back to New York for a year.  He finished his career playing for the Patriots and Panthers. After his final season, Testaverde announced his retirement in 2008.