30 Facts About Greg Zuerlein

Early Life and High School Achievements

Greg Zuerlein's journey to NFL stardom began in Lincoln, Nebraska. His early years were marked by impressive athletic achievements that set the stage for his future success.

1. Greg Zuerlein was born on December 27, 1987, in Lincoln, Nebraska.
2. He graduated from Lincoln Pius X High School in 2006.
3. During his junior year, he set a Nebraska state record for field goals in a season with 12-of-16 attempts and a long of 52 yards.
4. Zuerlein earned Nebraska All-State and All-Class honors as a junior and senior.
5. He also played soccer and was a 2005 Sports Illustrated preseason high school All-American.

College Football Career

Zuerlein's college career saw him excel at two different universities, showcasing his kicking prowess and setting multiple records.

6. He accepted a football scholarship from the NCAA Division II University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO).
7. During his sophomore year in 2008, he set a school record with 61 consecutive extra points made.
8. As a junior in 2009, he set school records with 17 field goals in a single season and 131 extra points in his career.
9. He made a career-long 52-yard field goal against West Texas A&M University in the Kanza Bowl.
10. In 2011, UNO canceled its football program, leading Zuerlein to transfer to Missouri Western State University.
11. At Missouri Western, he set the NCAA Division II record of 21 consecutive field goals, nine of which were beyond 50 yards.
12. He also set the school record with a 58-yard field goal against Northwest Missouri State University twice.
13. Zuerlein achieved a .952 field goal percentage, making 23 of 24 attempts.

NFL Draft and Early Career

Zuerlein's transition to the NFL was marked by immediate impact and record-breaking performances.

14. He was drafted in the sixth round (171st overall) of the 2012 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams.
15. Zuerlein made his NFL debut in the season opener against the Detroit Lions, converting two extra point attempts and three field goal attempts.
16. In Week 4 of the 2012 season, he made a 60-yard field goal against the Seattle Seahawks, breaking Jeff Wilkins' franchise record for the longest field goal.

Career Highlights and Achievements

Zuerlein's career has been filled with notable achievements, including Pro Bowl selections and record-breaking performances.

17. On October 1, 2017, he broke the Rams record for the most field goals in a game by going 7 for 7 against the Dallas Cowboys.
18. This performance earned him NFC Special Teams Player of the Week for the fourth time in his career.
19. In 2017, Zuerlein was named to his first Pro Bowl.
20. He earned NFC Special Teams Player of the Month for November 2017.
21. Zuerlein was later named a First-team All-Pro in 2017.
22. He finished the 2017 season leading the league in scoring with 158 points and 11.3 points per game.

Clutch Kicking and Accuracy

Known for his clutch kicking abilities, Zuerlein has consistently delivered in critical moments.

23. For his career, he is 38 for 45 (84.4%) on field goals to tie or take the lead in the fourth quarter and overtime.
24. He went 10 for 11 (90.9%) on these kicks over his two seasons in Dallas.
25. Zuerlein's accuracy varies by distance range, with notable percentages in different yard ranges.
26. Since the extra point moved back to 33 yards in 2015, Zuerlein has been mostly solid, connecting on 94.6% of his extra points.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Kicking

Zuerlein's performance shows distinct differences between indoor and outdoor settings.

27. Indoor, he has a field goal percentage of 85.3% and an extra point percentage of 97.8%.
28. Outdoor, his field goal percentage is 80.0%, and his extra point percentage is 93.5%.

Personal Life and Community Involvement

Beyond the field, Zuerlein is known for his dedication to his family and community.

29. Zuerlein is married and has two children.
30. He is involved in various community activities, particularly in the St. Louis area, and has been recognized for his philanthropic work.

Greg Zuerlein: A Kicking Legend

Greg Zuerlein's journey from high school standout to NFL star showcases his dedication and talent. Known for his powerful leg and clutch performances, he's earned nicknames like "Greg the Leg" and "Legatron." His career highlights include a 60-yard field goal, multiple Pro Bowl selections, and setting records for the Rams. Despite injuries and team changes, Zuerlein remains a reliable kicker, now competing for the New York Jets. His impact on the field is matched by his community involvement and family dedication. With a career field goal percentage of 82.2% and numerous accolades, Zuerlein's legacy in the NFL is secure. His story inspires future kickers and football fans alike, proving that hard work and resilience pay off. Greg Zuerlein is more than just a kicker; he's a legend in the making.