Norm Johnson, a professional American football placekicker, enjoyed a lengthy career in the National Football League (NFL). Born on May 31, 1960, in Inglewood, California, Johnson attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he played college football and honed his skills as a kicker. His proficiency on the field caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his entry into the league.
Johnson began his NFL journey with the Seattle Seahawks, who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 1982. During his tenure with the Seahawks, he quickly established himself as a reliable kicker. Over the course of his time in Seattle, Johnson became known for his consistency and accuracy, attributes that made him a valuable asset to the team. He played with the Seahawks for nine seasons, during which he became the franchise's all-time leading scorer, a record he held for several years.
In 1991, Johnson transitioned to the Atlanta Falcons, where he continued to demonstrate his kicking prowess. His time with the Falcons was marked by several memorable performances, including a career-high 59-yard field goal. Johnson's ability to perform under pressure was evident throughout his career, and his tenure with the Falcons further solidified his reputation as a dependable kicker.
The Pittsburgh Steelers became Johnson's next team in 1995. His arrival in Pittsburgh coincided with a successful period for the franchise. Johnson played a crucial role in the Steelers' journey to Super Bowl XXX, where they faced the Dallas Cowboys. Although the Steelers did not win the championship, Johnson's contributions throughout the season were instrumental in their playoff run. During his time with the Steelers, he continued to maintain a high level of performance, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 1993.
After leaving the Steelers, Johnson joined the Philadelphia Eagles in 1999. His stint with the Eagles marked the final chapter of his NFL career. Despite being in the twilight of his professional journey, Johnson remained an effective kicker, providing veteran leadership and experience to the team.
Throughout his 18-year career, Norm Johnson played in 259 games, scoring a total of 1,736 points. His longevity in the league is a testament to his skill and reliability as a kicker. Johnson's career field goal percentage of 76.3% and his ability to consistently convert extra points made him one of the most dependable kickers of his era.
Off the field, Johnson was known for his professionalism and sportsmanship. His career serves as an example of the importance of consistency and reliability in the role of a placekicker. After retiring from professional football, Johnson remained involved in the sport, participating in various charitable activities and community events.
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