Boston College High School has named Paul Zukauskas, who graduated from the Dorchester high school in 1997 and eventually played five seasons in the National Football League, as its new head football coach.

A standout athlete on the BC High gridiron, Zukauskas later was a four-year starter at Boston College. He was inducted into the BC High Hall of Fame in 2006.

“I would first like to thank [Athletic Director] Tom Conley, Principal [Adam] Lewis, and President [Grace] Regan for giving me the opportunity to return home to Boston College High School as head football coach and give back to the community that shaped me,” Zukauskas said in a statement.

“It’s a chance to inspire the next generation and impart the lessons I’ve learned both on and off the field. I’m excited to contribute to the legacy of BC High football, foster a culture of excellence, and help young men achieve their dreams, just as this school helped me to achieve mine.”

Throughout his five-year professional career – which included stints with the Browns and the San Francisco 49ers – Zukauskas appeared in 43 games. In 2009, he returned to Boston College as a graduate assistant and was part of the football coaching staff that led the Eagles to two bowl appearances. He went on to serve as the head coach of the Lawrence Academy football team from 2011 – 2017.

“Paul proudly wore an Eagles uniform for eight years – four on Cotter Field and four at Alumni Stadium – and continually exemplifies Jesuit principles in his athletic and coaching pursuits,” said President Grace Cotter Regan. “BC High football has a long and storied legacy, and I am confident that Paul will continue that tradition for the next generation of players. I look forward to our program’s future with Paul at the helm.”

Zukauskas serves as a board member of Project D.E.E.P., the Dorchester Educational Enrichment Program, a nonprofit that aims to foster the educational, athletic, and social growth and development of middle school children of all races, creeds, and ethnic backgrounds throughout the Dorchester community.

A Weymouth native, he resides in Milton with his wife Claire and their three children, Molly, Maeve, and Michael.