Zane Gonzalez

Zane Gonzalez is a professional American football kicker known for his consistency and strong leg. Over the years, he has made a name for himself in the National Football League (NFL) as a reliable player. Let’s explore his journey, achievements, and what makes him a valuable asset to any team.

Early Life and College Career

Zane Gonzalez was born on May 7, 1995, in Deer Park, Texas. From a young age, he showed an interest in sports and excelled as a kicker during his high school football days. After graduating, he attended Arizona State University (ASU), where he played college football for the Sun Devils.

At ASU, Gonzalez quickly became one of the best kickers in college football history. He set multiple records, including:

Most Career Field Goals in NCAA History: Gonzalez made 96 field goals during his college career, the most by any player in NCAA history at the time.

Lou Groza Award: In 2016, Gonzalez won the prestigious Lou Groza Award, given annually to the best kicker in college football.

His accuracy, power, and composure under pressure made him a standout player and caught the attention of NFL scouts.

NFL Career

Zane Gonzalez entered the 2017 NFL Draft as one of the top kicking prospects. He was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the seventh round, making him one of the few kickers drafted that year.

Cleveland Browns (2017-2018)

Gonzalez began his NFL career with the Browns, but his time there was challenging. While he showed flashes of his talent, inconsistent performances and missed kicks led to his release in 2018.

Arizona Cardinals (2018-2021)

After leaving the Browns, Gonzalez joined the Arizona Cardinals, where he found more stability and success. During his time with the Cardinals:

Gonzalez became known for his long-range field goals, regularly converting kicks from beyond 50 yards.

In the 2019 season, he made 31 of 35 field goal attempts, one of the best performances of his career.

He was a reliable option for the team in close games, often delivering under pressure.

However, injuries and competition eventually led to the Cardinals moving on from Gonzalez in 2021.

Detroit Lions and Carolina Panthers (2021-2022)

In 2021, Gonzalez briefly signed with the Detroit Lions but didn’t appear in any games. Later that year, he joined the Carolina Panthers, where he had a strong season.

Gonzalez made 20 of 22 field goals in the 2021 season, showcasing his accuracy and dependability.

Unfortunately, an injury sidelined him during the 2022 preseason, and the Panthers released him before the season started.

San Francisco 49ers (2023)

In 2023, Gonzalez signed with the San Francisco 49ers. While he was expected to be the team’s starting kicker, a calf injury during the preseason limited his opportunities. Despite the setback, Gonzalez’s experience and skills keep him on the radar for teams in need of a proven kicker.

Strengths as a Kicker

Zane Gonzalez is known for several qualities that make him a standout kicker:

Strong Leg: Gonzalez has the ability to make long field goals, often converting attempts from 50+ yards.

Accuracy: When healthy, he is highly accurate, making the majority of his field goal and extra point attempts.

Mental Toughness: Kicking in the NFL requires focus and confidence, especially in high-pressure situations. Gonzalez has shown he can handle the mental demands of the job.

Challenges and Injuries

Like many professional athletes, Gonzalez has faced challenges throughout his career. His time in Cleveland was marked by inconsistency, and injuries have occasionally sidelined him. However, Gonzalez has consistently bounced back, showing resilience and determination.

Off the Field

Outside of football, Zane Gonzalez is known for his humble and hardworking personality. He keeps a low profile and focuses on his craft, earning respect from teammates and coaches.

Gonzalez also inspires young kickers who look up to his journey from college star to NFL player. His success shows that dedication and perseverance can lead to a rewarding career.

What’s Next for Zane Gonzalez?

As of 2025, Gonzalez remains a talented kicker with plenty to offer. While injuries have temporarily slowed him down, his experience and skill set make him a valuable option for NFL teams in need of a reliable kicker.

Whether he finds a permanent home with one team or continues as a sought-after free agent, Gonzalez’s career is a testament to hard work and adaptability.

Conclusion

Zane Gonzalez’s journey in football is a story of talent, perseverance, and resilience. From his record-breaking college days to his challenges and triumphs in the NFL, Gonzalez has proven himself to be a dedicated professional.

For fans and aspiring players, his career serves as a reminder that success often comes with ups and downs. Despite setbacks, Gonzalez continues to work hard, and his legacy as a skilled kicker remains intact. As his career progresses, there’s no doubt that Zane Gonzalez will continue to make an impact in the world of football.