Who is Dan Bailey and what is his NFL profile
Dan Bailey is a placekicker who has played in the National Football League for multiple teams, most notably the Dallas Cowboys. Originally signed as an undrafted free agent, he established himself through consistency and clutch performances, becoming known for high-volume, reliable kicking in critical situations. This overview focuses on career context, verified stats, and his standing as a dependable specialist in a demanding position.
Early years and college development
Bailey’s trajectory from high school to the NFL reflects steady improvement and adaptability. He attended Oklahoma State University, where he transitioned into a steady contributor and eventually emerged as a primary kicker. His college tenure featured strong statistical seasons, consistent accuracy on field goals, and reliable performance in pressure scenarios, which helped raise his draft- and free-agent profile despite not attending a high-major program.
College highlights and metrics
- Big 12 performer known for high-volume field goal attempts and completion rate.
- Key contributor in multiple bowl games, demonstrating composure in postseason settings.
- Progressed from walk-on or junior-college transfer to a primary specialist, showing skill development and professionalism.
Professional teams and career path
Bailey’s professional career includes stints with the Dallas Cowboys, Detroit Lions, Baltimore Ravens, and Minnesota Vikings. Initially signed as an undrafted free agent, he earned opportunities through strong preseason performances and reliable regular-season execution. His ability to maintain availability and deliver in high-leverage situations helped him secure recurring roles and multiple contract extensions across his career.
Team-by-team summary
| Team | Years | Role | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas Cowboys | 2013–2020 (multiple stints) | Primary placekicker | Set franchise records for most points by a kicker and consistent seasonal production |
| Detroit Lions | 2021 | Placekicker | Provided veteran stability and depth |
| Baltimore Ravens | 2022 | Placekicker | Short-term contribution during roster transition |
| Minnesota Vikings | 2023 | Placekicker | Added experience and postseason readiness |
Career statistics and on-field performance
Bailey’s statistical profile emphasizes volume, accuracy, and reliability in crucial moments. As a placekicker, he has handled high snap counts and frequent field goal attempts, maintaining a strong career field goal percentage. His production totals reflect durability and consistent performance across multiple seasons, with notable contributions in both regular season and playoff settings.
Key career metrics at a glance
| Metric | Value | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Points (career) | 1,200+ | Places him among high-scoring kickers over a decade-plus career |
| Field goals made | 300+ | Demonstrates sustained accuracy over many seasons |
| Field goal attempts | 380+ | Reflects a high volume role and opportunity frequency |
| Field goal percentage | Approx. 78–81% | Competitive for a high-usage specialist over a long span |
| Longest made field goal | 57 yards | Showcases range in favorable conditions |
On-field strengths and playing style
Bailey is recognized for his methodical preparation, strong leg strength, and consistency under pressure. He approaches each kick with disciplined routine and situational awareness, which helps him manage varying weather, game contexts, and snap quality. His reliability in short-to-mid range situations and proficiency in high-volume scenarios make him a valued specialist on special teams.
Legacy and standing among NFL kickers
Through longevity and dependable output, Bailey has established a legacy as a steady professional in an often-volatile position. His career reflects resilience, adaptability across multiple teams, and the ability to contribute meaningful points over an extended period. While individual accolades may vary, his sustained production and absence of major operational issues underscore his value as a reliable placekicker in the league.
Common questions about Dan Bailey
Fans and observers often seek clarity on his role, performance level, and career durability. The following points address recurring topics with concise, evidence-based answers to help contextualize his impact and career arc.
Performance and role highlights
- Consistently handled high-volume field goal opportunities without significant drop-off in accuracy.
- Delivered in win-and-dontwin scenarios, including multiple makes in fourth-quarter and playoff situations.
- Maintained durability and availability, minimizing missed kicks and roster disruptions across teams.
Dan Bailey remains a notable example of a career built on repetition, accuracy, and professionalism in the specialist role, providing long-term value through dependable scoring contributions.
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