For decades, the path to becoming an elite football specialist was a traditional one, almost always starting with a player who grew up within the American football system. But in recent years, a new and powerful trend has emerged, proving that some of the most potent legs in the game are being forged not on the gridiron, but on soccer and Australian Rules Football pitches across the globe.
This global pipeline is creating a new blueprint for what a modern specialist can be, and the results are undeniable.
The Ultimate Proof of Concept: Aubrey & Lambo
There are no better examples of the soccer-to-football trend than two recent NFL standouts. Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey, a former professional soccer player, didn’t kick an American football until well into his adult life. Yet, in just two seasons, he has shattered NFL records and earned All-Pro honors.
Similarly, former Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Josh Lambo was a first-round MLS SuperDraft pick and a goalkeeper for the U.S. U-17 and U-20 National Soccer Teams before he ever played college football. He successfully made the transition and became one of the most accurate kickers in the NFL, holding the Jaguars’ franchise record for career field goal percentage. Their stories are not anomalies; they are the ultimate proof of concept.
A Second Career: The Specialist’s Unique Advantage
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of this global pipeline is the career longevity it offers. Unlike virtually any other position in the NFL, a specialist can have a full athletic career in another sport and still have time to transition to football at an older age.
A 25-year-old professional soccer player can play out their career and then realistically begin a new journey to the NFL. A 25-year-old who has never played linebacker or wide receiver simply cannot do the same. The physical toll and developmental window for those positions closes much earlier. This unique opportunity makes kicking and punting one of the only true “second career” paths in professional football.
Beyond Soccer: The Australian Punter Pipeline
The pipeline isn’t limited to kickers. Over the past decade, Australian athletes with backgrounds in Australian Rules Football (“Aussie Rules”) have come to dominate the punting position at both the NCAA and NFL levels. The unique, end-over-end kicking style required in their sport translates perfectly to punting an American football with incredible accuracy and backspin. This has produced a wave of NFL talent, including stars like Michael Dickson (Seattle Seahawks), Mitch Wishnowsky (San Francisco 49ers), and Cameron Johnston (Pittsburgh Steelers).
The European Connection
The trend of soccer players converting is also gaining significant momentum in Europe. Young, talented athletes with powerful legs are seeing a new opportunity in American football. A perfect example is the latest kicker to commit to Boston College (my alma mater), Andy Quinn from Ireland. His background in rugby provided the fundamental ball-striking ability that made him a top recruit, following a path similar to my own.
It’s More Than Just a Different Ball
While the raw talent is there, the transition is not as simple as just switching sports. The mechanics are unique and require expert guidance. This is where specialized coaching becomes the critical factor.
This is a path I know personally. Before I kicked in the NFL or at Boston College, my entire focus was on soccer, playing for the U.S. Youth National Teams at the U17 and U20 levels. It wasn’t until my last few years of high school that I made the transition to football. I quickly learned that while my soccer background gave me a huge advantage in leg strength and ball-striking, mastering the specific mechanics required dedicated, specialized coaching. An athlete must learn:
- The precise steps and approach for a field goal.
- The proper plant foot placement to maximize power and accuracy.
- The specific follow-through required to create a true and consistent ball flight.
The Future of Kicking and Punting
The global pipeline is no longer a novelty; it’s a legitimate and growing talent pool that smart teams are actively exploring. It proves that the next great NFL or college specialist might not be on a football field right now—they might be on a soccer pitch in San Diego, a rugby field in Ireland, or an Aussie Rules oval in Melbourne, waiting to unlock their full potential.
Think the Best Kickers Grow Up Playing Football? Think Again.
About The Kicking System
Founded by former NFL and Division I kicker John Matich, The Kicking System is a premier training organization dedicated to developing elite kickers and punters. Based in San Diego, CA, we provide specialized coaching that focuses on flawless mechanics, explosive power, and the mental toughness required to succeed at the highest levels of football. Our comprehensive approach helps athletes from youth leagues to the professional ranks achieve their full potential.
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