Reggie Roby, a punter known for his powerful leg and unique style, made a lasting impression in the National Football League (NFL). Born on July 30, 1961, in Waterloo, Iowa, Roby attended the University of Iowa, where he excelled as a punter for the Hawkeyes. His college career was marked by an exceptional ability to punt the football with both distance and hang time, attributes that caught the attention of NFL scouts.
Roby entered the NFL when he was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the sixth round of the 1983 NFL Draft. Standing out with his distinctive two-step punting technique and wearing a wristwatch during games to monitor hang time, Roby quickly became a fan favorite. His rookie season set the tone for what would be a remarkable career, as he averaged 43.1 yards per punt, showcasing his ability to change field position effectively.
Throughout his tenure with the Dolphins, Roby was a consistent performer. He played for Miami from 1983 to 1992, earning Pro Bowl selections in 1984, 1989, and 1990. His performance in the 1984 season was particularly noteworthy, as he led the league with an average of 44.7 yards per punt. Roby's ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory was a valuable asset for the Dolphins' defense.
After a decade with Miami, Roby continued his career with several other NFL teams. In 1993, he joined the Washington Redskins, where he played for two seasons. His time with the Redskins was followed by stints with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1995 and the Houston/Tennessee Oilers from 1996 to 1997. Roby's final season in the NFL was with the San Francisco 49ers in 1998.
Roby's career statistics reflect his skill and consistency as a punter. Over 16 seasons, he played in 261 games and recorded 992 punts for a total of 42,951 yards, averaging 43.3 yards per punt. His ability to maintain a high level of performance over such a long period is a testament to his talent and work ethic.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Roby was known for breaking the mold of the traditional punter. As one of the few African American punters in the league during his time, he paved the way for greater diversity in the position. His unique style and approach to punting left a lasting legacy in the NFL.
Reggie Roby's career was characterized by his powerful leg, consistency, and ability to adapt to different teams and playing conditions.
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