Greg Zuerlein is one of the most consistent and talented kickers in the NFL. Fans know him for his powerful kicks, long-distance accuracy, and ability to handle pressure. This blog explores everything about his journey, from his early days in football to his current role with the New York Jets.
We explore his net worth, contract details, and professional achievements. You’ll also find insights about his personal life, off-field interests, and what the future might hold for him. This article gives a clear and simple view of Greg Zuerlein’s career and financial success.
If you’re curious about Greg Zuerlein’s life and accomplishments, this blog covers it all.
Who Is Greg Zuerlein?
Greg Zuerlein is a professional football player best known for his role as a kicker in the National Football League (NFL). With a height of 6 feet and a weight of 195 pounds, Zuerlein combines strength and precision to excel in his position. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of the most reliable kickers in the league, earning him the nickname “Legatron” for his incredible kicking range and accuracy. He is currently a member of the New York Jets, where he continues to showcase his skill and experience.
Where Did Greg Zuerlein Grow Up?
Greg Zuerlein was born on December 27, 1987, in Lincoln, Nebraska, USA. He grew up in the heartland of America, where football is a way of life. Lincoln, known for its strong community spirit and love for sports, played a big role in shaping Zuerlein’s early interest in athletics. From a young age, Greg showed a natural talent for sports, especially soccer and football, which laid the foundation for his future career as a kicker.
Greg Zuerlein’s High School Career
Greg attended Lincoln Pius X High School, where he first began to shine as a football player. Initially, he played multiple positions, but his skill as a kicker quickly stood out. His powerful leg and consistent accuracy earned him recognition, making him one of the standout players on the team.
During his time at Pius X High School, Zuerlein was named to the All-State team, an honor that highlighted his potential as a future NFL kicker. Beyond football, Greg also participated in other sports, which helped him build the strength and discipline required for his football career.
Where Does Greg Zuerlein Live?
Greg Zuerlein currently resides in the New York area, close to the facilities of the New York Jets. Living near the team ensures that he can dedicate himself fully to training and performance. Despite his public career, Greg values privacy, and he has managed to keep the details of his personal life and residence relatively low-key.
Who Is Greg Zuerlein Married To?
Greg Zuerlein is married to his longtime partner, Megan. The couple has been together for many years, and Megan has been a constant source of support throughout Greg’s career. While Megan stays out of the public spotlight, her role in Greg’s life is significant. She has stood by him through the highs and lows of his professional journey.
Does Greg Zuerlein Have Children?
Yes, Greg Zuerlein is a proud father. He and his wife, Megan, have four children. Greg often speaks about how much his family means to him and how they inspire him to perform his best on and off the field. His role as a father is just as important to him as his football career.
What Controversies Have Surrounded Greg Zuerlein?
Greg Zuerlein is known for maintaining a clean and professional image throughout his career. Unlike many athletes who find themselves in the midst of controversies, Greg has stayed focused on his game and family. His dedication to his craft and his low-profile personal life have helped him avoid any major scandals or negative media attention.
Has Greg Zuerlein Ever Been Arrested?
No, Greg Zuerlein has never been arrested. He has built a reputation as a disciplined and responsible individual, both on and off the field. His conduct reflects his professionalism and commitment to setting a positive example for his teammates and fans.
Greg Zuerlein Social Media Presence
Greg Zuerlein does not have an active presence on most major social media platforms. Unlike many of his peers who use platforms like Instagram or Twitter to connect with fans, Greg has chosen to focus on his career and personal life. This absence from social media reflects his private nature and his preference to let his performance on the field speak for itself.
Greg Zuerlein’s Off-Field Interests and Hobbies
Outside of football, Greg Zuerlein has a variety of interests. He enjoys spending time with his family, often engaging in outdoor activities with his children. Additionally, Greg has a passion for fitness and continues to stay in peak condition even during the off-season. While he doesn’t publicize his hobbies extensively, it’s clear that family and fitness play a central role in his life.
Greg Zuerlein College Football Career
Greg Zuerlein’s college football journey is an essential part of his story, showcasing his early talent and dedication that eventually led to his NFL career. Let’s dive into his time in college and how it shaped his professional career.
Where Did Greg Zuerlein Play College Football?
Greg Zuerlein played college football at two different institutions. He began his college career at the University of Nebraska Omaha, where he played from 2006 to 2009. Unfortunately, the university discontinued its football program in 2011, forcing him to transfer.
Zuerlein then moved to Missouri Western State University for his senior year. While at Missouri Western, he continued to excel as a kicker, breaking records and attracting attention from professional scouts. The move proved to be a turning point in his career, as it gave him the platform to showcase his incredible kicking abilities.
What Awards Did Greg Zuerlein Accomplish in College Football?
During his college football career, Greg Zuerlein earned several accolades for his impressive performances as a kicker. At Missouri Western State University, he became known for his consistency and long-distance field goals.
- School Records: Zuerlein set a school record for the longest field goal at 58 yards.
- Perfect Season: In his senior year, he made 21 consecutive field goals, another school record.
- Conference Honors: He received All-MIAA (Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association) honors, solidifying his status as one of the best kickers in his conference.
These achievements highlighted his potential and caught the attention of NFL scouts, setting the stage for his professional career.
What Bowl Games Did Greg Zuerlein Win in College Football?
Greg Zuerlein’s college teams did not participate in major bowl games, as both the University of Nebraska Omaha and Missouri Western State University competed in smaller NCAA divisions. Despite this, his performances during regular season games and his record-breaking kicks made him a standout player in his league.
Did Greg Zuerlein Receive NIL Money?
Greg Zuerlein played college football before the NCAA approved Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation for athletes. Therefore, he did not receive NIL money during his college career. At the time, NCAA rules prohibited college athletes from profiting from endorsements or sponsorships.
Did Greg Zuerlein Use the Transfer Portal?
No, Greg Zuerlein did not use the modern NCAA transfer portal. When he transferred from the University of Nebraska Omaha to Missouri Western State University, the transfer portal system was not yet in place. His move was a direct result of the University of Nebraska Omaha discontinuing its football program.
Is Greg Zuerlein Still Involved With His College?
While Greg Zuerlein has not publicly shared extensive involvement with his alma maters, he has occasionally been recognized by Missouri Western State University for his accomplishments in professional football. The university takes pride in its connection to Zuerlein as one of its most successful athletic alumni.
Similar Active College Athletes to Greg Zuerlein
Although Zuerlein’s achievements as a kicker are unique, there are many college athletes today who excel in the kicking position. Players like Jake Moody (formerly of Michigan, now in the NFL) and other top college kickers in recent years share a similar drive and focus. Like Zuerlein, these athletes combine accuracy and power to make a significant impact on their teams.
Greg Zuerlein’s Draft Combine Performance
Greg Zuerlein did not attend the NFL Draft Combine, as it is rare for kickers from smaller schools to receive an invitation. However, he showcased his talent during his pro day at Missouri Western State University. His ability to consistently make long-distance field goals, combined with his impressive accuracy, earned him attention from NFL teams. This performance ultimately led to him being selected in the sixth round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams.
Greg Zuerlein Professional Football Career
Greg Zuerlein’s professional football career is a remarkable journey filled with achievements, consistent performances, and memorable moments. As a kicker, his contributions have often been the deciding factor in games, earning him recognition as one of the best in his role.
What Teams Has Greg Zuerlein Played for in the NFL?
Greg Zuerlein began his NFL career in 2012 after being selected in the sixth round of the NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams. Here are the teams he has played for:
- St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams (2012–2019):
- Zuerlein spent the majority of his career with the Rams, transitioning with the team when they moved from St. Louis to Los Angeles in 2016. He quickly became known for his long-range field goals and consistent accuracy.
- Dallas Cowboys (2020–2021):
- After eight seasons with the Rams, Zuerlein signed with the Dallas Cowboys. During his time there, he continued to deliver reliable performances, often stepping up in clutch moments.
- New York Jets (2022–Present):
- In 2022, Greg Zuerlein joined the New York Jets. His veteran experience and dependable kicking have made him an important asset for the team.
What Awards Has Greg Zuerlein Won in the NFL?
Greg Zuerlein’s career is decorated with several accolades, highlighting his contributions to the league:
- Pro Bowl Selection (2017): Zuerlein was selected for the Pro Bowl in 2017 after a stellar season where he led the NFL in points scored and field goals made.
- First-Team All-Pro (2017): He was also named to the First-Team All-Pro in 2017, solidifying his status as one of the best kickers in the league.
- NFC Special Teams Player of the Week (Multiple Occasions): Over his career, Zuerlein has received this award several times for his outstanding performances in individual games.
How Has Greg Zuerlein Performed in the Playoffs?
Greg Zuerlein has delivered strong performances in playoff games throughout his career. His most notable moment came during the 2018 NFC Championship Game while playing for the Los Angeles Rams. Zuerlein made a 57-yard game-winning field goal in overtime to defeat the New Orleans Saints and send the Rams to the Super Bowl. This kick remains one of the most iconic moments of his career.
Has Greg Zuerlein Won a Super Bowl?
No, Greg Zuerlein has not won a Super Bowl. He came close during the 2018 season when the Los Angeles Rams reached Super Bowl LIII. Unfortunately, the Rams lost to the New England Patriots in a low-scoring game, with a final score of 13-3. Despite the loss, Zuerlein’s contributions throughout the season were a key reason the team made it to the championship.
What Playing Style Is Greg Zuerlein Known For?
Greg Zuerlein is best known for his powerful leg and long-range accuracy. Here are a few traits that define his playing style:
- Long-Distance Kicking: Zuerlein has consistently demonstrated the ability to make field goals from 50+ yards, earning him the nickname “Legatron.”
- Clutch Performances: He thrives under pressure, often delivering in high-stakes situations, such as the 2018 NFC Championship Game.
- Consistency: Over the years, Zuerlein has maintained a solid field goal percentage, making him a dependable option for his teams.
Greg Zuerlein Injury History
Like most athletes, Greg Zuerlein has faced injuries during his career. The most notable occurred in 2017, when he suffered a herniated disc in his back. This injury cut short his Pro Bowl season, forcing him to miss the Rams’ playoff games that year. However, Zuerlein successfully recovered and returned to form, continuing to perform at a high level in subsequent seasons.
Similar Pro Athletes to Greg Zuerlein
Greg Zuerlein is often compared to other elite kickers in the NFL, such as:
- Justin Tucker (Baltimore Ravens): Widely regarded as one of the best kickers of all time, Tucker shares Zuerlein’s consistency and long-range ability.
- Adam Vinatieri (Retired): Known for his clutch playoff performances, Vinatieri’s career serves as a benchmark for all kickers.
- Matt Prater (Arizona Cardinals): Prater is another kicker renowned for his ability to make long-distance field goals, much like Zuerlein.
Will Greg Zuerlein Make the Hall of Fame?
While it is difficult for kickers to gain entry into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Greg Zuerlein has built a case based on his long-range ability and clutch performances. Players like Adam Vinatieri set the precedent for kickers being inducted, and Zuerlein’s contributions—particularly his game-winning moments—make him a potential candidate. Whether or not he will ultimately make the Hall of Fame depends on how the remainder of his career unfolds.
Future Prospects for Greg Zuerlein
As Greg Zuerlein continues his professional football career, fans and analysts often wonder about his plans for the future. Whether it’s staying involved in football or pursuing other ventures, Zuerlein has several potential paths he could take.
Does Greg Zuerlein Want to Coach Football?
While Greg Zuerlein has not publicly expressed an interest in coaching, his deep understanding of the game and years of experience make it a viable option for his future. Kickers with his level of expertise often transition into roles where they mentor younger players, particularly in special teams coaching positions.
Zuerlein’s ability to stay calm under pressure and his technical skill could make him an excellent coach, especially for aspiring kickers who want to improve their technique and consistency.
Does Greg Zuerlein Want to Go Into Broadcasting?
Greg Zuerlein has not actively pursued opportunities in broadcasting, but it remains a potential avenue for retired players looking to stay connected to the sport. Broadcasters with playing experience often provide unique insights that appeal to fans.
If Zuerlein were to choose this path, his calm demeanor and in-depth knowledge of football strategy could make him a valuable addition to sports networks, especially as a special teams analyst.
Does Greg Zuerlein Do Speaking Engagements?
While there is limited information about Greg Zuerlein participating in formal speaking engagements, many NFL players eventually share their experiences with audiences. Speaking engagements allow athletes to connect with fans, inspire younger generations, and discuss lessons learned from their careers.
Zuerlein’s journey—from overcoming challenges in college to becoming a standout NFL kicker—offers a compelling story that could resonate with various audiences, including student-athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts.
Does Greg Zuerlein Have a Podcast?
Greg Zuerlein does not currently have a podcast. However, podcasts have become a popular platform for athletes to share their perspectives on sports, life, and personal experiences. If Zuerlein were to create one, it could focus on the mental and physical preparation required for success as a kicker, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the world of special teams players in the NFL.
Does Greg Zuerlein Run a Football Camp?
As of now, Greg Zuerlein does not run a football camp. However, many NFL players host annual camps to train and inspire young athletes. Given his expertise as a kicker, Zuerlein could offer specialized training camps for aspiring kickers and punters. These camps could focus on building confidence, improving accuracy, and learning proper kicking techniques.
If Zuerlein were to establish a camp, it would likely attract a wide range of participants eager to learn from a seasoned professional.
Does Greg Zuerlein Run a Foundation?
Greg Zuerlein has not publicly announced the creation of a personal foundation. However, many NFL players become involved in charitable work during or after their careers. Establishing a foundation would allow Zuerlein to give back to his community, support causes he cares about, and leave a lasting impact beyond football.
Potential focuses for a foundation could include youth sports development, scholarships for student-athletes, or support for underprivileged communities.
Greg Zuerlein’s Contract and Business Venture Information
Greg Zuerlein, known for his powerful and accurate kicking, has secured significant contracts throughout his NFL career. Let’s delve into the details of his current contract, incentives, endorsements, and business ventures.
Greg Zuerlein’s Current Contract Details
In March 2024, Greg Zuerlein re-signed with the New York Jets on a two-year deal worth $8.4 million.
This contract includes a $2.89 million signing bonus and $4.2 million guaranteed. For the 2024 season, Zuerlein’s base salary is $1.21 million, with a cap hit of $1.88 million and a dead cap value of $4.1 million. These figures highlight the Jets’ confidence in Zuerlein’s abilities as a reliable kicker.
What Are Greg Zuerlein’s Current Contract Incentives?
Zuerlein’s contract includes per-game active bonuses, providing additional earnings for each game he plays. Specifically, he receives $5,882 per game, totaling up to $100,000 if he plays all games in a season. These incentives are designed to reward consistent participation and performance throughout the season.
What Endorsements Does Greg Zuerlein Have?
Information about Greg Zuerlein’s endorsement deals is limited, suggesting that he maintains a low profile off the field. Unlike some athletes who actively pursue commercial partnerships, Zuerlein appears to focus primarily on his football career. This approach aligns with his reputation as a dedicated and professional athlete.
What Are Greg Zuerlein’s Business Ventures?
There is no public information indicating that Greg Zuerlein is involved in any business ventures outside of his NFL career. He seems to concentrate his efforts on his performance as a professional athlete, without engaging in entrepreneurial activities. This focus has contributed to his longevity and success in the league.
Greg Zuerlein’s Net Worth
Greg Zuerlein, a seasoned NFL kicker, has accumulated significant wealth through his professional football career. His net worth is estimated to be around $25 million. This substantial figure reflects his earnings from multiple NFL contracts over the years.
Contract Breakdown
Throughout his career, Zuerlein has secured several lucrative contracts:
- St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams (2012–2019): Zuerlein began his NFL journey with the Rams, where he signed his rookie contract and subsequent extensions, contributing significantly to his early career earnings.
- Dallas Cowboys (2020–2021): In 2020, he signed a three-year deal worth $7.5 million, including a $1 million signing bonus and $2.25 million guaranteed.
- New York Jets (2022–Present): Zuerlein joined the Jets in 2022 on a one-year contract and re-signed in 2024 for two years, totaling $8.4 million, with $4.2 million guaranteed and a $2.89 million signing bonus.
These contracts, along with performance incentives and bonuses, have substantially contributed to Zuerlein’s net worth, reflecting his value and reliability as a top-tier NFL kicker.
