Dan Bailey: The Unassuming Star Kicker of the Dallas Cowboys
Hello there, football enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the world of the Dallas Cowboys to shine a spotlight on a player who's been a consistent game-changer for the team, yet often flies under the radar. We're talking about none other than Dan Bailey, the Cowboys' former kicker who left an indelible mark on the team's history. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and dan bailey cowboys.
Dan Bailey's Journey to the NFL
Before we delve into Dan Bailey's impressive career with the Dallas Cowboys, let's rewind to the beginning. Born in 1988, Bailey grew up in a football-loving family in Texas. He played high school football at Austin's Westlake High, where he was a standout kicker and punter. Bailey then moved on to the University of Oklahoma, where he continued to hone his kicking skills.
Did you know? Dan Bailey was a three-time All-Big 12 selection during his college career, setting numerous school records.
The Undrafted Free Agent Who Made a Name for Himself
In 2011, after going undrafted in the NFL draft, Bailey signed with the Dallas Cowboys as a free agent. Many might have written him off as just another long shot, but Bailey had other plans. He quickly proved his worth, earning the starting kicker job and never looking back.
Dan Bailey's rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. He set an NFL record for most field goals made in a single season by a rookie, with 32 successful kicks out of 34 attempts. His accuracy and consistency earned him a spot on the Pro Football Writers Association All-Rookie Team and the PFWA All-NFL Team.
A Decade of Dominance with the Dallas Cowboys
Over the course of his nine-year career with the Cowboys, Dan Bailey established himself as one of the most reliable kickers in NFL history. Here are a few of his impressive feats:
- Most Accurate Kicker in NFL History (min. 200 attempts): Bailey's career field goal percentage of 87.6% is the highest in NFL history, ahead of legendary kickers like Adam Vinatieri and Justin Tucker.
- Most Consecutive Field Goals Made: Bailey holds the Cowboys' record for most consecutive field goals made, with 29, a streak that spanned the 2012 and 2013 seasons.
- Most Field Goals Made in a Single Game: In a 2016 game against the Green Bay Packers, Bailey kicked a career-high seven field goals, leading the Cowboys to a 30-16 victory.
Dan Bailey's Impact on the Dallas Cowboys
While Dan Bailey's contributions might not always make the headlines, his impact on the Dallas Cowboys has been immense. His clutch kicking has won games, kept games close, and given the Cowboys' offense confidence that they could always count on their kicker to bail them out.
Did you know? Dan Bailey's 1,050 points scored with the Cowboys rank him third in franchise history, behind only Hall of Famers Roger Staubach and Emmitt Smith.
Life After the Dallas Cowboys
In 2018, after nine seasons with the Cowboys, Dan Bailey signed with the Minnesota Vikings. He spent two seasons with the Vikings before joining the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020. Although his time with these teams was shorter, Bailey continued to showcase his kicking prowess, making key contributions to their respective playoff runs.
Dan Bailey's Legacy
As we look back on Dan Bailey's career, it's clear that he's left an indelible mark on the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL. Despite going undrafted, Bailey proved that consistency, accuracy, and a strong work ethic can take a player to the top of their game.
So, here's to you, Dan Bailey – the unassuming star kicker who left a lasting impact on the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL. Your legacy lives on, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for you.