Jim Arnold's career in professional football is remembered for his role as a punter in the National Football League (NFL). Born on January 31, 1961, in Dalton, Georgia, Arnold attended the University of Vanderbilt, where he honed his skills in college football. His performance at Vanderbilt caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his entry into the professional league.
Arnold began his NFL journey with the Kansas City Chiefs, who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 1983. During his time with the Chiefs, Arnold quickly established himself as a reliable punter, demonstrating consistency and precision in his kicking game. His tenure with Kansas City lasted until 1985, during which he developed a reputation for his ability to handle pressure situations on the field.
In 1986, Arnold joined the Detroit Lions, where he spent the majority of his professional career. His years with the Lions were marked by steady performances and a strong work ethic. Arnold's punting skills were a valuable asset to the team, contributing to field position battles and providing the defense with advantageous starting points. His ability to execute punts with accuracy and distance made him a respected figure among his peers.
Arnold's proficiency as a punter did not go unnoticed, earning him Pro Bowl selections in 1987 and 1988. These accolades reflected his standing as one of the top punters in the league during that period. His time with the Lions solidified his reputation as a dependable player, and he became a familiar name to fans of the team.
After his stint with the Lions, Arnold continued his NFL career with the Miami Dolphins in 1993. Although his time with the Dolphins was brief, he brought his veteran experience to the team, contributing to their special teams unit. Arnold's final season in the NFL was with the Dolphins, concluding a career that spanned over a decade.
Throughout his career, Arnold was known for his professionalism and consistency on the field.
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