Ryan Succop, a professional American football placekicker, began his NFL career when he was selected as the final pick in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, earning him the title of "Mr. Irrelevant." Despite the moniker, Succop quickly proved his worth on the field. Born on September 19, 1986, in Hickory, North Carolina, he attended the University of South Carolina, where he played college football and honed his skills as a kicker.
In his rookie season with the Chiefs, Succop tied the NFL record for the highest field goal percentage by a rookie, converting 86.2% of his attempts. This impressive start earned him the Chiefs' Rookie of the Year award and set the tone for his professional career. Over the next few years, Succop became a reliable asset for Kansas City, consistently delivering under pressure and maintaining a solid field goal percentage.
Succop's tenure with the Chiefs lasted until 2013. During this period, he became the franchise's all-time leader in field goal percentage, a testament to his accuracy and consistency. However, in 2014, the Chiefs released him, leading to a new chapter in his career with the Tennessee Titans.
Joining the Titans, Succop continued to demonstrate his kicking prowess. In 2016, he made headlines with a game-winning 53-yard field goal against the Kansas City Chiefs, his former team, in frigid conditions. This kick was a highlight of his time in Tennessee, showcasing his ability to perform in challenging situations. Succop remained with the Titans until 2019, during which he set a franchise record for consecutive field goals made, further solidifying his reputation as a dependable kicker.
In 2020, Succop signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played a crucial role in the team's success. His performance during the 2020 season was instrumental in helping the Buccaneers secure a spot in Super Bowl LV. Succop's accuracy and reliability were on full display during the playoffs, culminating in a Super Bowl victory where he successfully converted all his field goal and extra point attempts. This achievement made him the first "Mr. Irrelevant" to play and win a Super Bowl, adding a unique milestone to his career.
Succop continued to play for the Buccaneers in the 2021 season, maintaining his status as a reliable kicker. Throughout his career, he was known for his strong leg, consistency, and ability to handle high-pressure situations. His journey from being the last pick in the draft to a Super Bowl champion is a testament to his skill and perseverance in the NFL.
🏈