The Most Highly Regarded Kicker in NFL Draft History: Sebastian Janikowski

Only three kickers have made it to the first round of the NFL draft: Charlie Gogolak, Russell Erxleben, and Sebastian Janikowski. Among them, Sebastian Janikowski, often referred to as Sea Bass, stands out as the most highly regarded and one of the few kickers to achieve legendary status in the league.

Sebastian Janikowski: A Brief History

Jan Steinrud, also known as Sea Bass, was not your typical NFL player. He was the first soccer-style kicker in the league. His unique approach to kicking, where the foot strikes the ball with the instep rather than the toe, set him apart from other kickers. This unconventional technique was a game-changer and led him to become one of the greatest kickers in NCAA history, particularly noted for his distance kicks.

First Round Draft and Initial Implications

In 2000, despite the nearly unprecedented move of drafting a kicker in the 17th overall pick by the Oakland Raiders, Janikowski's potential was clear to scouts and draft analysts. The decision to draft a kicker in such a high round came with significant skepticism, as kickers typically don't fit the traditional criteria for high-round selections. An outstanding kicker like Janikowski considered a first-round pick seemed like an overreach to many football experts.

Decades of Consistency and Legacy

Janikowski's career with the Raiders spanned 17 years, cementing his status as a consistent and reliable kicker. His longevity and reliability were testament to the fact that he was not just a talent in the late rounds or a free agent—his skills were so valuable that he kept a job for an extended period, earning the respect and admiration of fans and teammates alike.

The Critique: Smart or Stupid?

While Janikowski's ability to perform under pressure and his longevity are undeniable, the decision to draft him in the first round is often scrutinized. Critics argue that using a first-round pick on a special teams player was a waste of a valuable selection. The Raiders' approach, prioritizing speed over talent, has been criticized, especially since Janikowski's offensive contributions were minimal. However, his consistency alone speaks to the calculated risk the Raiders took, given the option of improvement in other areas where the team was struggling.

Concluding Thoughts

In the world of professional football, where positions like kickers are often undervalued, Sebastian Janikowski's legacy as the most highly regarded kicker in draft history is a reminder of the role of unconventional talent and perseverance. While his draft position may be questioned, his 17-year career with one team is a testament to his ability to adapt and perform, making him a standout figure in NFL lore.