Dan Bailey is a distinguished American professional Football placekicker, renowned for his impressive career in the National Football League (NFL). He began his journey at Oklahoma State University, where he showcased his exceptional talent by earning the Lou Groza Award in 2010, recognizing him as the nation’s top collegiate kicker. His college statistics were remarkable, culminating in a successful transition to the professional arena as an undrafted free agent in 2011.
Bailey’s professional career took off with the Dallas Cowboys, where he played from 2011 to 2017. During his tenure, he became the franchise’s all-time leader in field goals made, a testament to his consistency and skill. Notably, he achieved a remarkable milestone on September 14, 2014, when he made his 91st field goal in just 100 attempts, establishing himself as one of the most accurate kickers in NFL history. His performance earned him a spot on the Pro Bowl team in 2015 and a second-team All-Pro selection the same year.
In 2018, Bailey joined the Minnesota Vikings, where he continued to demonstrate his kicking prowess. Over the next three seasons, he maintained a high level of performance, contributing significantly to the team’s special teams unit. His ability to deliver under pressure solidified his reputation as a reliable kicker in critical game situations.
Throughout his career, Bailey has left an indelible mark on the NFL, finishing with an impressive field goal percentage of 85.9%. As of November 2024, he ranks among the top 15 most accurate kickers in league history, a testament to his dedication and skill in the sport. Dan Bailey’s journey is a remarkable story of talent, perseverance, and excellence in professional Football.