Greg Zuerlein, known by the nickname "Legatron" for his powerful kicking ability, is a professional American football placekicker. He began his NFL career when he was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in the sixth round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Zuerlein quickly gained attention for his impressive leg strength and accuracy, which set him apart from many of his peers in the league.
Born on December 27, 1987, in Lincoln, Nebraska, Zuerlein attended the University of Nebraska Omaha before transferring to Missouri Western State University. During his college career, he demonstrated exceptional kicking skills, which caught the attention of NFL scouts. His transition to the professional league was marked by a strong start, as he made an immediate impact with the Rams.
In his rookie season, Zuerlein made headlines by setting a franchise record with a 60-yard field goal, showcasing his ability to convert long-distance kicks. His performance earned him the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors multiple times throughout his career. Zuerlein's consistency and reliability as a kicker were vital for the Rams, especially during close games where his field goals often made the difference.
Throughout his tenure with the Rams, which included the team's relocation to Los Angeles, Zuerlein continued to be a reliable asset. One of his standout seasons came in 2017 when he was named to the Pro Bowl and earned First-team All-Pro honors. That year, he led the NFL in scoring with 158 points, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league's top kickers.
Zuerlein's career with the Rams reached a pinnacle during the 2018 season when he played a crucial role in the team's journey to Super Bowl LIII. His performance in the NFC Championship Game against the New Orleans Saints was particularly memorable. Zuerlein kicked a 57-yard field goal in overtime to secure the Rams' victory and their spot in the Super Bowl. Although the Rams ultimately fell to the New England Patriots in the championship game, Zuerlein's contributions were instrumental in their playoff success.
In 2020, Zuerlein signed with the Dallas Cowboys, bringing his talents to a new team. His experience and skill were valuable assets for the Cowboys' special teams unit. Zuerlein continued to demonstrate his ability to perform under pressure, delivering crucial field goals and extra points throughout his time with the team.
Over the course of his career, Zuerlein has been recognized for his strong work ethic and ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
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