Biography
Russell Erxleben, born on January 13, 1957, in New Braunfels, Texas, is a former American football placekicker who played in the National Football League (NFL) during the late 1970s and early 1980s. A standout at the University of Texas, he gained national attention for his strong leg and accuracy, which helped him earn recognition as an All-American and an exceptional college kicker. Erxleben was selected in the first round of the 1979 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, making him one of the first placekickers to be drafted in the first round.
During his NFL career, Erxleben played for the New Orleans Saints and the Detroit Lions, where he displayed a powerful kicking ability that contributed to his team's performance. He is known for having set several records during his time in the league, including a notable milestone for the longest field goal at the time. Overall, he appeared in 74 games across his professional career, achieving significant contributions in both kicking and punting roles.
After retiring from professional football, Erxleben's legacy continued as he paved the way for future kickers in the NFL, demonstrating that they could be drafted early and make impactful contributions to their teams. His career remains a point of reference for discussions around athletic versatility and specialization in football, as well as the evolution of the kicking position in the sport. Erxleben's influence is still remembered among fans and players alike as part of the game’s history.