Dan Bailey: The Unassuming Kicker of the Dallas Cowboys
Hello, football fans! Today, we're diving into the world of special teams and shining a spotlight on a player who's been a consistent force for the Dallas Cowboys: Dan Bailey. This guy might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of the Cowboys, but he's certainly made his mark on the team's history. So, buckle up as we explore the career of this unassuming kicker. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and dan bailey cowboys.
The Early Years: From High School to Oklahoma State
Before he was booting field goals for the Cowboys, Dan Bailey was honing his kicking skills in the small town of Brownwood, Texas. He was a three-sport athlete in high school, but it was his leg that truly set him apart. Bailey was a perfect 100/100 on extra points during his senior year, a feat that still stands as a Texas high school record.
Bailey then took his talents to Oklahoma State University, where he became a reliable kicker for the Cowboys (yes, the other Cowboys). He was a two-time All-Big 12 selection and set the school record for most consecutive field goals made with 19.
From Undrafted to Unstoppable
In 2011, Dan Bailey went undrafted in the NFL Draft. But instead of hanging up his cleats, he signed with the Dallas Cowboys as a free agent. And boy, did he make the most of his opportunity.
Bailey stepped into a kicking battle with veteran David Buehler and emerged victorious. He went on to have one of the most successful rookie seasons by a kicker in NFL history. Bailey made 32 of 37 field goal attempts (86.5%) and all 41 of his extra point attempts, earning him a Pro Bowl nod.
Consistency is Key
Dan Bailey's consistency is what truly sets him apart. From 2011 to 2017, he was nothing short of automatic on extra points, converting 255 in a row. That's right, 255. He also set an NFL record with 52 consecutive made field goals from 2012 to 2014.
Bailey's reliability was a huge asset to the Cowboys, especially in close games. His ability to come through in clutch situations helped the Cowboys secure several wins during his tenure.
The Injury Bug and Life After Dallas
In 2018, Bailey's streak of consecutive made extra points finally came to an end due to an injury. The Cowboys decided not to re-sign him, and he spent the next two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings and the Chicago Bears.
Despite the injuries and the changes in scenery, Bailey continued to prove his worth. He's currently the 10th all-time leading scorer in NFL history among kickers, with 1,056 points.
Dan Bailey's Legacy
Dan Bailey might not have the flash or the fame of some other Cowboys, but his impact on the team can't be denied. He was a model of consistency, a reliable kicker who could be counted on in any situation.
So, the next time you're watching a Cowboys game and they need a field goal, remember the name Dan Bailey. He might not be the first name that comes to mind, but he's certainly one of the most important in the team's history.
That's all for today, folks! Thanks for joining us on this journey through the career of Dan Bailey. Until next time, keep your eyes on the kicking game - you never know when the next great story is going to kick off.