Recipient of the prestigious Lou Groza Award as the nation’s top college kicker in 2015, Ka’imi Fairbairn established himself as an elite talent during his collegiate career at UCLA. As a true freshman in 2012, Fairbairn secured the starting kicking position, steadily improving his accuracy over four seasons. His senior year in 2015 marked several significant milestones, including his first successful 50-plus yard field goal against Arizona State and a UCLA record-setting 60-yard field goal against California. That same year, he surpassed former Bruins kicker John Lee’s record to become the Pac-12 Conference’s all-time leading scorer.
His exceptional performance earned him a nearly unanimous first-team All-American selection and Second-team All-Pac-12 honors. Fairbairn transitioned to the professional ranks after signing with the Houston Texans in 2016. Following an injury-hampered rookie season, he made his NFL debut in 2017, securing the starting kicker role and immediately setting a franchise record for consecutive field goals made to start a Texans career. His standout 2018 season saw him lead the NFL in both points scored and field goals made, a performance that led to multiple contract extensions solidifying his position as one of the league’s highest-paid kickers.
His consistent excellence in 2023 earned him another AFC Special Teams Player of the Week award in Week 15. Entering 2024, Fairbairn continued his impactful trajectory, earning AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors in Week 2 and solidifying his status as the Texans’ all-time scoring king. Following personnel changes, he also became the longest-tenured Texan on the current roster. Known for his powerful leg and unwavering accuracy, Ka’imi Fairbairn consistently demonstrates his long-term value and pivotal role in the Houston Texans’ strategic success, making him a highly marketable and critical asset in professional football.