Biography
Jim Bakken, born on November 2, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri, is a former American football placekicker who played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals in the National Football League (NFL). He was selected in the 12th round of the 1962 NFL Draft and went on to have a remarkable 17-season career, highlighted by his consistency and skill as a scorer. Bakken was known for his exceptional leg strength and accuracy, earning recognition as one of the league's premier kickers during his tenure.
Throughout his career, Bakken achieved significant milestones, including being named to the Pro Bowl twice, in 1967 and 1969. He also had a standout performance in 1968 when he set a franchise record by scoring 138 points in a single season. Bakken remains the all-time leading scorer for the St. Louis Cardinals, and his 1,380 career points placed him among the top scorers in NFL history at the time of his retirement.
Bakken's impact on the game extended beyond his kicking abilities, as he was an influential player in popularizing the importance of the placekicking position in football. After retiring from professional play in 1978, he left a lasting legacy, both as a player and as a pioneer for future kickers in the league. His contributions to the sport have solidified his place in NFL history, particularly within the Cardinals' franchise.