Dan Bailey: The Dallas Cowboys' Unheralded Kicker
Hello there, football fans! Today, we're shining a spotlight on a key player who's often overshadowed by the glitz and glamour of the Dallas Cowboys' offense: Dan Bailey. This guy's been the Cowboys' kicker for nearly a decade, and he's got a resume that's nothing to sneeze at. So, grab a seat, and let's dive into the world of the man who's been booting field goals and extra points for the 'Boys since 2011. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and dan bailey dallas cowboys.
The Early Days: From Oklahoma to Dallas
Before he was donning the star, Dan Bailey was making waves in his college career at Oklahoma State University. He was a three-time All-Big 12 selection and set numerous school records, including the most consecutive field goals made (29) and the most field goals made in a single season (28). It was clear from the get-go that this guy had a golden leg.
The Dallas Cowboys must have seen something special in Bailey too, because they drafted him in the seventh round of the 2011 NFL Draft. And boy, did he prove them right!
A Decade of Booting in Dallas
Dan Bailey's career with the Dallas Cowboys has been nothing short of impressive. He's the franchise's all-time leading scorer, with a total of 1,050 points under his belt. That's right, folks! He's passed the legendary Tony Dorsett and Emmitt Smith on the Cowboys' all-time scoring list. Not too shabby for a guy who's primarily responsible for kicking the ball, huh?
One of Bailey's most memorable moments came in the 2012 season when he kicked a game-winning 38-yard field goal as time expired against the Carolina Panthers. The crowd went wild, and the Cowboys secured their first win of the season. It was a defining moment for Bailey, solidifying his role as a clutch performer.
The Record-Breaking Streak
From 2012 to 2015, Dan Bailey was on an absolute tear. He made 50 consecutive field goals, setting a new NFL record for the most consecutive field goals made from inside 50 yards. This streak was a testament to Bailey's consistency and accuracy, making him one of the most reliable kickers in the league.
The Injury Bug and Life After Dallas
Unfortunately, injuries started to take a toll on Bailey in the latter part of his Cowboys career. He missed several games due to various ailments, and the Cowboys ultimately decided not to re-sign him after the 2017 season. But Dan Bailey wasn't ready to hang up his cleats just yet.
He spent the 2018 season with the Minnesota Vikings, where he continued to display his kicking prowess, connecting on 21 of 28 field goal attempts. However, he was released by the Vikings in 2019 and hasn't found a new team since.
Dan Bailey: More Than Just a Kicker
Off the field, Dan Bailey is known for his involvement in various charitable causes. He's a supporter of the American Cancer Society and has participated in several events to raise awareness and funds for the organization. He's also been involved in local community service initiatives, proving that he's not just a great kicker, but also a stand-up guy.
The Future of Dan Bailey
As of now, Dan Bailey's future in the NFL remains uncertain. But one thing's for sure: he's left an indelible mark on the Dallas Cowboys franchise. His consistency, accuracy, and clutch performances have made him one of the most beloved and successful kickers in team history.
So, here's to you, Dan Bailey. Thanks for the memories, and we hope to see you booting field goals and extra points again soon!