Billy Cundiff's journey in professional football is marked by a series of transitions across various teams in the National Football League (NFL). Born on March 30, 1980, in Valley Center, California, Cundiff attended Drake University, where he played college football and honed his skills as a placekicker. Despite not being drafted in the 2002 NFL Draft, Cundiff's abilities earned him a spot with the Dallas Cowboys, where he began his professional career.
Cundiff's tenure with the Cowboys was characterized by a mix of successes and challenges. He initially joined the team in 2002 and played until 2005, with a brief interruption in 2003. During his time with the Cowboys, Cundiff set a franchise record by kicking seven field goals in a single game against the New York Giants in 2003. However, his career with the Cowboys was interrupted by injuries, leading to his release in 2005.
Following his departure from Dallas, Cundiff's career involved a series of short stints with multiple NFL teams. He signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2006 but was released before the start of the season. Cundiff then joined the Green Bay Packers, New Orleans Saints, and Atlanta Falcons, though he did not play in any regular-season games for these teams.
In 2009, Cundiff found a more stable position with the Baltimore Ravens. His time with the Ravens proved to be a significant chapter in his career. He played for the team from 2009 to 2011 and was selected for the Pro Bowl in 2010 after leading the league in touchbacks. However, his tenure with the Ravens is often remembered for a missed 32-yard field goal in the 2011 AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots, which would have tied the game in the final seconds.
After leaving the Ravens, Cundiff continued to play in the NFL, joining teams such as the Washington Redskins, San Francisco 49ers, Cleveland Browns, and Buffalo Bills. His career was characterized by frequent team changes, often serving as a reliable option for teams in need of an experienced kicker.
Cundiff's professional journey reflects the challenges and unpredictability faced by many athletes in the NFL.
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