Gregory Zuerlein Bio
Gregory Zuerlein, born on December 27, 1987, is a professional American football placekicker currently playing for the New York Jets in the National Football League (NFL). Hailing from Lincoln, Nebraska, Zuerlein had a successful college football career at the University of Nebraska Omaha and Missouri Western State University. He gained recognition for his powerful kicking capabilities, which earned him the nickname ‘Greg The Leg’. Zuerlein was drafted in the sixth round by the St. Louis Rams in the 2012 NFL Draft, where he quickly established himself as a premier kicker, earning Pro Bowl selection and accolades as a First-team All-Pro in 2017. Throughout his career, he has set numerous records and continues to excel in his position.
Early Life and Background
Gregory Zuerlein was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, where he attended Pius X High School. He graduated in 2006 and during his junior year, he set a Nebraska state record for field goals in a season, successfully converting 12 out of 16 attempts with a long of 52 yards. His impressive performance on the field earned him Nebraska All-State and All-Class honors during his junior and senior years. In addition to football, Zuerlein also practiced soccer and was recognized as a 2005 Sports Illustrated preseason high school All-American.
Zuerlein accepted a football scholarship to the NCAA Division II University of Nebraska Omaha, where he played for the Mavericks from 2006 to 2010. As a sophomore in 2008, he set a school record by making 61 consecutive extra points. His junior year in 2009 saw him set records for field goals in a single season and career extra points. After a medical redshirt in 2010 due to a hip injury, Zuerlein transferred to Missouri Western State University in 2011, where he further showcased his kicking prowess by setting the NCAA Division II record for consecutive field goals made.
Path to American Football
Zuerlein was selected by the St. Louis Rams in the sixth round of the 2012 NFL Draft, making him the first non-Football Bowl Subdivision kicker drafted since 2006. He made his NFL debut in the season opener against the Detroit Lions, where he successfully converted two extra points and three field goals. In his rookie season, Zuerlein made headlines by hitting a 60-yard field goal against the Seattle Seahawks, breaking the franchise record. He became the first player in NFL history to make both a 60-yard field goal and a 50-plus yarder in the same game, earning him the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week award.
Throughout his early career with the Rams, Zuerlein continued to impress with his accuracy and distance. He was named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week multiple times and finished his rookie season with a commendable record of 23 field goals made out of 31 attempts. His performance in the 2013 season further solidified his reputation as a reliable kicker, converting 26 of 28 field goal attempts.
Gregory Zuerlein Career
Early Career (2012-2015)
Zuerlein’s early career with the St. Louis Rams was marked by significant achievements. In the 2017 season, he earned First-team All-Pro honors, was selected for the Pro Bowl, and led the NFL in scoring. He set a franchise record for field goals made in a game and was recognized as the NFC Special Teams Player of the Month. His ability to convert long field goals became a hallmark of his career, with multiple kicks over 50 yards.
In 2018, Zuerlein continued to excel, contributing to the Rams’ success as they advanced to Super Bowl LIII. He made a crucial 53-yard field goal during the game, although the Rams ultimately lost to the New England Patriots. Zuerlein’s performance in the 2019 season was also notable, as he converted 24 of 33 field goal attempts and all extra points.
Breakthrough (2016-2019)
Zuerlein’s breakthrough came during the 2017 season, where he not only earned a Pro Bowl selection but also led the league in scoring with 158 points. His remarkable consistency and ability to perform under pressure were evident during the Rams’ playoff run, where he played a pivotal role in their victories. In the NFC Championship Game against the New Orleans Saints, Zuerlein made a game-tying field goal that sent the game into overtime, ultimately helping the Rams secure a spot in the Super Bowl.
Notable Works and Milestones
Zuerlein’s signature work includes his record-setting performances, particularly his 60-yard field goal against the Seattle Seahawks and his contributions during the Rams’ playoff run in 2019. He has received numerous accolades, including multiple NFC Special Teams Player of the Week awards and recognition as a First-team All-Pro.
Gregory Zuerlein Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Gregory Zuerlein has received several nominations for his outstanding performance as a placekicker, particularly during the 2017 season when he was selected for the Pro Bowl and named a First-team All-Pro.
Gregory Zuerlein Awards Won
Gregory Zuerlein has won multiple awards, including the First-team All-Pro in 2017, Pro Bowl selection in the same year, and recognition as the NFL scoring leader in 2017.
Gregory Zuerlein Family
Gregory Zuerlein is married to Megan Zuerlein. The couple is known for their strong faith and has five children together.
Personal Life
Zuerlein and his wife are devout Catholics, and their family life is an important aspect of their lives. Known for his kicking ability, Zuerlein has been nicknamed ‘The Leg’ and ‘Legatron’ since his rookie season, reflecting his powerful kicking skills.
