Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Field Goal Kickers of All Time
Field goal kickers have been an integral part of the Minnesota Vikings' success since the team's inception in 1960. These talented players have been tasked with converting crucial field goals, consistently scoring points, and providing a reliable option in high-pressure situations. Throughout the Vikings' history, the field goal kicker position has produced some of the most iconic, impactful, and legendary players to ever don the purple and gold, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.
From accurate and consistent kickers with unparalleled technique to clutch performers who can deliver in the most critical moments of the game, this list represents the very best of what the position has to offer in Minnesota Vikings history. These elite field goal kickers have redefined the position, set new standards for excellence, and inspired generations of kickers who have followed in their footsteps.
Without further ado, here is our ranking of the 10 best Vikings field goal kickers of all time:
(If you didn’t catch Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Guards of All Time, you can read that here.)
10. Ryan Longwell
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 0
Summary:
Ryan Longwell, an undrafted free agent from the University of California, Berkeley in 1997, became a reliable and consistent field goal kicker for the Minnesota Vikings during his six-year tenure with the team. Longwell's accuracy, poise under pressure, and strong leg made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' special teams unit.
Longwell quickly earned a starting role with the Vikings and established himself as one of the most accurate kickers in the league. His ability to convert field goals from various distances, handle kickoff duties, and maintain a high level of consistency made him an integral part of the Vikings' success during his time in Minnesota.
As Longwell's career progressed, he became a respected figure in the locker room. His work ethic, consistency, and dedication to his craft earned him the admiration of his teammates and coaches alike.
Longwell's peak seasons came in 2009 when he converted 26 out of 28 field goal attempts, achieving a remarkable 92.9% success rate and converting 54 out of 55 extra points. His performance during this season showcased his reliability and clutch kicking ability, as he helped the Vikings secure crucial victories and playoff berths.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, Longwell's consistency and accuracy were exceptional. He converted 135 out of 157 field goal attempts, achieving an impressive 86% success rate. Longwell's ability to deliver in high-pressure situations and maintain a high level of performance throughout his tenure made him a respected figure among his teammates and coaches.
After retiring as a player in 2013, Longwell's legacy as one of the most reliable and accurate kickers in Vikings history was secure. While he may not have received individual accolades such as First-Team All-Pro selections or Pro Bowl appearances during his time with the Vikings, his impact on the team's success and his reputation as a consistent kicker were undeniable.
Ryan Longwell's legacy is one of consistency, reliability, and clutch performance. He epitomized the qualities of a dependable field goal kicker, always ready to deliver when called upon and maintaining a high level of accuracy throughout his tenure. Longwell's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his six-year career was significant, as he helped the team secure crucial victories and playoff appearances. While he may not be a household name, Longwell's contributions to the game and his place among the best Vikings field goal kickers of all time should not be overlooked.
9. Mike Mercer
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 1
Summary:
Mike Mercer, a 15th-round draft pick from the University of Georgia in 1961, became one of the earliest placekickers for the Minnesota Vikings during his four-year tenure with the team. Mercer's strong leg, accuracy, and versatility made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' special teams unit during the early years of the franchise.
Mercer quickly earned a starting role with the Vikings and established himself as one of the most reliable kickers in the league. His ability to convert field goals from various distances, handle kickoff duties, and even punt when needed made him a versatile weapon for the Vikings' special teams.
As Mercer's career progressed, he became a respected figure in the locker room. His work ethic, consistency, and dedication to his craft earned him the admiration of his teammates and coaches alike.
Mercer's peak season came in 1967 when he was selected to his sole Pro Bowl. His performance during that season, in which he converted 16 out of 27 field goal attempts, achieving a 59.3% success rate, showcased his impact on the team's success.
Throughout his career, Mercer's strong leg was notable. He converted 102 out of 195 field goal attempts, achieving a 52.3% success rate, which was respectable for the time period. Mercer's ability to handle multiple kicking duties and consistently deliver solid performances made him a valuable asset to the Vikings during their early years.
After retiring as a player in 1971, Mercer's legacy as one of the Vikings' earliest and most versatile kickers was secure. While he may not have received the individual accolades of some of his contemporaries, his impact on the Vikings' franchise and his reputation as a reliable kicker were undeniable.
Mike Mercer's legacy is one of versatility, reliability, and being a pioneer for the franchise. He epitomized the qualities of a true professional, always putting the team first and dedicating himself to his craft. Mercer's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his four-year career was significant, as he helped establish the team's special teams unit and consistently delivered solid performances. While he may not be a household name, Mercer's contributions to the game and his place among the best kickers in Vikings history should not be overlooked.
8. Fred Cox
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 1
Summary:
Fred Cox, a 1963 eighth-round draft pick from the University of Pittsburgh, became a legendary figure in Minnesota Vikings history during his 15-year career with the team. Cox's longevity, consistency, and unique kicking style made him an iconic player and a fan favorite throughout his tenure with the Vikings.
Cox quickly earned a starting role with the Vikings and established himself as one of the most reliable kickers in the league. His unorthodox straight-on kicking style, coupled with his accuracy and strong leg, made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' special teams unit.
As Cox's career progressed, he became a respected leader in the locker room and a mentor to younger players. His work ethic, dedication, and commitment to the team earned him the admiration of his teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
Cox's peak seasons came in the late 1960s and early 1970s when he consistently ranked among the league's top kickers in scoring and field goal accuracy. His performance during the Vikings' dominant years showcased his reliability and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
Throughout his career, Cox's longevity and consistency were remarkable. He played in 210 games for the Vikings, setting a franchise record that stood for decades. Cox converted 282 out of 455 field goal attempts, achieving a 62% success rate, and scored a total of 1,365 points, which remained a team record until 2007.
After retiring as a player in 1978, Cox's legacy as one of the greatest kickers in Vikings history was secure. While he may not have received individual accolades such as First-Team All-Pro selections or multiple Pro Bowl appearances, his impact on the Vikings' franchise and his reputation as a consistent and reliable kicker were undeniable.
Fred Cox's legacy is one of longevity, consistency, and being an iconic figure in Vikings history. He epitomized the qualities of a dedicated professional, always putting the team first and leading by example. Cox's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 15-year career was immense, as he helped the team achieve success and became a beloved figure among fans. While he may not be a household name outside of Minnesota, Cox's contributions to the game and his place among the best kickers in Vikings history should not be overlooked.
7. Fuad Reveiz
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 1
Summary:
Fuad Reveiz, a 7th-round draft pick from the University of Tennessee in 1985, became a reliable and consistent kicker for the Minnesota Vikings during his five-year tenure with the team. Reveiz's accuracy, poise under pressure, and strong leg made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' special teams unit.
Reveiz quickly earned a starting role with the Vikings and established himself as one of the most accurate kickers in the league. His ability to convert field goals from various distances, handle kickoff duties, and maintain a high level of consistency made him an integral part of the Vikings' success during his time in Minnesota.
As Reveiz's career progressed, he became a respected figure in the locker room. His work ethic, professionalism, and dedication to his craft earned him the admiration of his teammates and coaches alike.
Reveiz's peak season with the Vikings came in 1994 when he was selected to his sole Pro Bowl. His performance that season, in which he converted 34 out of 39 field goal attempts, achieving an impressive 87.2% success rate, showcased his accuracy and reliability.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, Reveiz's consistency and accuracy were noteworthy. He converted 97 out of 121 field goal attempts, achieving an impressive 80.2% success rate. Reveiz's ability to deliver in clutch situations and maintain a high level of performance throughout his tenure made him a valuable member of the Vikings' special teams unit.
After retiring as a player in 1996, Reveiz's legacy as one of the most accurate kickers in Vikings history was secure. While he may not have received multiple individual accolades, his impact on the team's success and his reputation as a reliable kicker were undeniable.
Fuad Reveiz's legacy is one of accuracy, consistency, and professionalism. He epitomized the qualities of a dependable kicker, always ready to deliver when called upon and maintaining a high level of performance throughout his tenure. Reveiz's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his four-year career was significant, as he helped the team achieve success and became a respected figure among his teammates and coaches. While he may not be as well-known as some other kickers in Vikings history, Reveiz's contributions to the team and his place among the franchise's best kickers should not be overlooked.
6. Blair Walsh
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 1
- Pro Bowls: 1
Summary:
Blair Walsh, a sixth-round draft pick from the University of Georgia in 2012, burst onto the scene as a rookie with the Minnesota Vikings, quickly establishing himself as one of the most promising young kickers in the league. Walsh's strong leg, accuracy, and clutch performances made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' special teams unit during his tenure with the team.
Walsh immediately earned a starting role with the Vikings and set several records in his impressive rookie season. His ability to convert long-distance field goals, handle kickoff duties, and deliver in high-pressure situations made him a key contributor to the team's success.
As Walsh's career progressed, he continued to showcase his strong leg and ability to convert clutch kicks. His work ethic, dedication, and mental toughness earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.
Walsh's peak season came in his rookie year when he was named First-Team All-Pro and selected to the Pro Bowl. His performance that season, in which he converted 35 out of 38 field goal attempts, achieving an impressive 92.1% success rate, and set a record for most 50+ yard field goals made in a season (10), showcased his immense talent and potential.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, Walsh's strong leg and ability to convert long-distance kicks were remarkable. He converted 154 out of 187 field goal attempts, achieving an 84.2% success rate. Walsh's performance in his first two seasons solidified his position as one of the most promising young kickers in the league.
Despite his early success, Walsh's career with the Vikings ended on a controversial note after he missed a crucial 27-yard field goal attempt in the 2015 NFC Wild Card game against the Seattle Seahawks. Following this setback, Walsh's performance declined, and he was ultimately released by the Vikings in 2016.
Blair Walsh's legacy with the Minnesota Vikings is one of incredible potential, remarkable achievements in his early career, and a reminder of the immense pressure faced by kickers in the NFL. While his tenure with the team ended in disappointment, Walsh's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his first two seasons cannot be understated. His strong leg, accuracy, and ability to deliver in clutch situations made him one of the most promising young kickers in the league, and his place among the best kickers in Vikings history should not be overlooked, despite the unfortunate end to his time in Minnesota.
5. Dan Bailey
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 1
Summary:
Dan Bailey, an undrafted free agent from Oklahoma State University in 2011, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2018 after a successful seven-year stint with the Dallas Cowboys. Bailey's accuracy, consistency, and experience made him a valuable addition to the Vikings' special teams unit during his three seasons with the team.
Bailey quickly earned a starting role with the Vikings and provided stability to the kicking position, which had been a point of concern for the team in previous years. His ability to convert field goals from various distances and maintain a high level of accuracy made him a reliable option for the Vikings' offense.
As Bailey's career with the Vikings progressed, he continued to showcase his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. His professionalism, work ethic, and leadership skills earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.
Bailey's best season with the Vikings came in 2019 when he converted 27 out of 29 field goal attempts, achieving an impressive 93.1% success rate. His performance that season helped the Vikings secure crucial victories and demonstrated his ability to deliver in high-stakes situations.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, Bailey's accuracy and reliability were commendable. He converted 63 out of 79 field goal attempts, achieving an 840% success rate. Bailey's consistency and experience provided the Vikings with a dependable kicking option during his time with the team.
While Bailey's tenure with the Vikings was relatively short compared to his time with the Cowboys, his impact on the team's success and his reputation as a reliable kicker cannot be overlooked. He provided stability to a position that had been a concern for the Vikings and delivered consistent performances throughout his three seasons with the team.
Dan Bailey's legacy with the Minnesota Vikings is one of consistency, reliability, and experience. He brought a level of stability to the kicking position that the team had been seeking and provided a dependable option for the offense. Bailey's professionalism, work ethic, and ability to perform under pressure made him a respected figure in the locker room and a valuable contributor to the team's success. Although his time with the team was brief, Bailey's impact on the franchise and his place among the best Vikings field goal kickers of all time should be recognized and appreciated.
4. Eddy Murray
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 1
- Pro Bowls: 2
Summary:
Eddy Murray, a tenth-round draft pick from Tulane University in 1980, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 1997 after successful stints with the Detroit Lions, Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Redskins. Murray's experience, consistency, and clutch performances made him a valuable addition to the Vikings' special teams unit during his three seasons with the team.
Murray quickly earned a starting role with the Vikings and provided stability to the kicking position. His ability to convert field goals from various distances, handle kickoff duties, and deliver in high-pressure situations made him a reliable option for the Vikings' offense.
As the Vikings field goal kicker, he showcased his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. His professionalism, work ethic, and leadership skills earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.
Murray's standout season occurred in 1989, where he achieved an impressive 82.1% success rate by converting 20 out of 21 field goal attempts, alongside a perfect 36 of 36 on his extra point attempts. His performance that season helped the Vikings secure crucial victories and demonstrated his ability to deliver in high-stakes situations.
During his time with the Vikings, Murray's accuracy and reliability were commendable. He converted 12 out of 17 field goal attempts during the 1997 season, achieving a 70.6% success rate. Murray's experience and clutch performances provided the Vikings with a dependable kicking option during his time with the team.
While Murray's tenure with the Vikings was incredibly short, his impact on the team's success and his reputation as a reliable kicker cannot be overlooked. He provided stability to the kicking position throughout the 1997 season with the team.
Eddy Murray's legacy with the Minnesota Vikings is one of experience, consistency, and clutch performances. He brought a level of stability to the kicking position and provided a dependable option for the offense. Murray's professionalism, work ethic, and ability to perform under pressure made him a respected figure in the locker room and a valuable contributor to the team's success. Although his time with the Vikings was brief, Murray's impact on the franchise and his place among the team's best kickers should be recognized and appreciated.
3. Jan Stenerud
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: Yes
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 1
- Pro Bowls: 6
Summary:
Jan Stenerud, a Norwegian-born kicker who played college football at Montana State University, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 1984 after a legendary career with the Kansas City Chiefs and the Green Bay Packers. Stenerud's experience, accuracy, and consistency made him a valuable addition to the Vikings' special teams unit during his two seasons with the team.
Stenerud quickly earned a starting role with the Vikings and provided stability to the kicking position. His ability to convert field goals from various distances, handle kickoff duties, and deliver in high-pressure situations made him a reliable option for the Vikings' offense.
As Stenerud's career with the Vikings progressed, he continued to showcase his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. His professionalism, work ethic, and leadership skills earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.
Stenerud's best season with the Vikings came in 1984 when he converted 20 out of 23 field goal attempts, achieving a solid 87% success rate. His performance that season helped the Vikings secure crucial victories and demonstrated his ability to deliver in high-stakes situations.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, Stenerud's accuracy and reliability were commendable. He converted 35 out of 49 field goal attempts, achieving a 71.4% success rate. Stenerud's experience and clutch performances provided the Vikings with a dependable kicking option during his time with the team.
While Stenerud's tenure with the Vikings was relatively short compared to his time with the Chiefs and Packers, his impact on the team's success and his reputation as a legendary kicker cannot be overlooked. He provided stability to the kicking position and delivered consistent performances throughout his two seasons with the team.
Jan Stenerud's legacy with the Minnesota Vikings is one of experience, consistency, and excellence. He brought a level of stability to the kicking position and provided a dependable option for the offense. Stenerud's professionalism, work ethic, and ability to perform under pressure made him a respected figure in the locker room and a valuable contributor to the team's success. Although his time with the Vikings was brief, Stenerud's impact on the franchise and his place among the team's best kickers should be recognized and appreciated, especially considering his status as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history and his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1991.
2. Gary Anderson
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 1
- Pro Bowls: 4
Summary:
Gary Anderson, a South African-born kicker who played college football at Syracuse University, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 1998 after successful stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles. Anderson's accuracy, consistency, and clutch performances made him a valuable addition to the Vikings' special teams unit during his five seasons with the team.
Anderson quickly earned a starting role with the Vikings and provided stability to the kicking position. His ability to convert field goals from various distances, handle kickoff duties, and deliver in high-pressure situations made him a reliable option for the Vikings' offense.
As Anderson's career with the Vikings progressed, he continued to showcase his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. His professionalism, work ethic, and leadership skills earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.
Anderson's best season with the Vikings came in 1998 when he achieved a perfect regular season, converting all 35 field goal attempts and all 59 extra point attempts. His performance that season helped the Vikings secure a 15-1 record and demonstrated his exceptional accuracy and reliability.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, Anderson's accuracy and consistency were remarkable. He converted 109 out of 129 field goal attempts, achieving an impressive 84.5% success rate. Anderson's clutch performances and reliability provided the Vikings with a dependable kicking option during his time with the team.
Anderson's tenure with the Vikings is most famously remembered for the 1998 NFC Championship Game against the Atlanta Falcons, where he missed a crucial 38-yard field goal attempt in the closing minutes of regulation, which would have sealed the victory for the Vikings. Despite this unfortunate moment, Anderson's overall impact on the team's success and his reputation as one of the most accurate kickers in NFL history cannot be overlooked.
Gary Anderson's legacy with the Minnesota Vikings is one of accuracy, consistency, and excellence. He brought a level of stability to the kicking position and provided a reliable option for the offense. Anderson's professionalism, work ethic, and ability to perform under pressure made him a respected figure in the locker room and a valuable contributor to the team's success. Although his time with the Vikings is often overshadowed by the missed kick in the 1998 NFC Championship Game, Anderson's impact on the franchise and his place among the team's best kickers should be recognized and appreciated, considering his status as one of the most accurate kickers in NFL history.
1. Morten Andersen
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: Yes
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 3
- Pro Bowls: 7
Summary:
Morten Andersen, a Danish-born kicker who played college football at Michigan State University, began his illustrious NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings in 2004. Although his tenure with the Vikings was brief, Andersen's accuracy, consistency, and longevity made him one of the greatest kickers in NFL history.
Andersen quickly earned a starting role in the league and showcased his talent and potential. His ability to convert field goals from various distances, handle kickoff duties, and deliver in high-pressure situations made him a valuable asset to the team.
As Andersen's career progressed, he continued to showcase his consistency and ability to perform at a high level. His professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to his craft earned him the respect of his teammates, coaches, and fans across the league.
Andersen's best season came in 1986 when he converted 26 out of 30 field goal attempts, achieving a solid 86.7% success rate. His performance that season demonstrated his ability to deliver in high-stakes situations, earning him his first First-Team All Pro Selection and second consecutive Pro Bowl nod.
Throughout his brief tenure with the Vikings, Andersen's accuracy and potential were evident. He converted 18 out of 22 field goal attempts, achieving a 81.8% success rate. Andersen's performance with the Vikings set the stage for his remarkable career, which spanned an incredible 25 seasons.
Although Andersen's time with the Vikings was short, his impact on the franchise and his status as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history cannot be overlooked. He went on to achieve numerous records and accolades, including being the all-time leading scorer in NFL history at the time of his retirement.
Morten Andersen's legacy with the Minnesota Vikings is one of excellence and potential. His brief tenure with the team showcased his accuracy, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure. Andersen's professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to his craft set the stage for his Hall of Fame career, which spanned over two decades. While his time with the Vikings was short, Andersen's impact on the franchise and his place among the team's best kickers should be recognized and appreciated, considering his status as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history and his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017.
The Enduring Legacy of the Best Vikings Field Goal Kickers of All Time
Throughout the history of the Minnesota Vikings, the field goal kicker position has produced some of the most influential and impactful players to ever wear the purple and gold. Legends such as Fred Cox, Ryan Longwell, and Gary Anderson have left indelible marks on the franchise with their unparalleled skills, clutch performances, and unwavering dedication to excellence. As the NFL has evolved, the role of the field goal kicker has become increasingly crucial and demanding. From the classic straight-on kickers of the past to the precise, soccer-style kickers of today, the position has adapted to meet the demands of modern special teams units. These elite field goal kickers are now tasked with not only converting field goals consistently but also handling kickoff duties, placing the ball strategically to limit return opportunities, and even executing onside kicks when needed. Their ability to impact the game in multiple ways, from making clutch kicks in high-pressure situations to pinning opponents deep in their own territory, can be the difference between victory and defeat. The field goal kickers we've highlighted in this article represent the very best in Vikings history, each having made a lasting impact on the team and its fans. From the longevity and consistency of Fred Cox and the clutch performances of Ryan Longwell to the precision of Gary Anderson and the strong leg of Fuad Reveiz, these players have set the standard for what it means to be an elite field goal kicker in Minnesota. As the Vikings continue to build towards a championship future, a new generation of field goal kickers is poised to carry the torch and build upon the legacies of those who came before them. Players like Will Reichard and John Parker Romo possess the skills, work ethic, and potential to one day join the ranks of the all-time greats and shape the future of the position in Minnesota. The field goal kicker position has a rich history filled with some of the most iconic and impactful players in Vikings history. These legendary kickers have not only redefined what it means to play the position but have also left a lasting impact on the team, its fans, and the Minnesota community as a whole. As the Vikings move forward, the legacy of these all-time great field goal kickers will continue to inspire and influence the next generation of players, ensuring that the position remains a crucial and celebrated role in the team's success for years to come. Read next: Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Cornerbacks of All Time - Discover the 10 best cornerbacks in Minnesota Vikings history, from legends like Carl Lee to modern-day stars such as Xavier Rhodes.
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