Tony Zendejas, a placekicker known for his accuracy and consistency, played in the National Football League (NFL) during a decade when the role of the kicker was becoming increasingly specialized and critical to team success. Born in Mexico, Zendejas moved to the United States, where he attended high school in Chino, California. His journey to professional football began at Santa Ana College, where he honed his skills before transferring to the University of Nevada, Reno. At Nevada, Zendejas set numerous records, including the NCAA record for consecutive field goals made, which caught the attention of NFL scouts.
Zendejas entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Houston Oilers in 1985. His rookie season was impressive, as he quickly established himself as a reliable kicker. Zendejas was known for his unique kicking style, utilizing a straight-on approach rather than the more common soccer-style technique. This method, combined with his strong leg, allowed him to convert field goals from long distances, making him a valuable asset to his team.
During his tenure with the Oilers, Zendejas consistently ranked among the league's top kickers in terms of field goal percentage. His performance in clutch situations earned him a reputation as a dependable player under pressure. In 1989, Zendejas was traded to the Los Angeles Rams, where he continued to demonstrate his kicking prowess. His time with the Rams was marked by several game-winning kicks, further solidifying his reputation as a reliable kicker.
In 1991, Zendejas signed with the Atlanta Falcons, where he played for one season. Although his stint with the Falcons was brief, he maintained a high level of performance, contributing to the team's overall success. The following year, Zendejas joined the San Francisco 49ers, where he played for two seasons. His experience and skill were valuable to the 49ers, particularly during critical moments in games.
Throughout his career, Zendejas was known for his ability to perform consistently, regardless of the team or situation. His accuracy and composure made him a trusted figure on the field, and his contributions were appreciated by teammates and coaches alike. After leaving the 49ers, Zendejas briefly returned to the Rams before retiring from professional football.
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