Jake Elliott, American football player

Jake Daniel Elliott, born on January 21, 1995, in Western Springs, Illinois, is a highly regarded American football placekicker for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL). Known for his remarkable accuracy and ability to perform under immense pressure, Elliott has solidified his position as one of the league's reliable special teams assets.

Collegiate Career and Record-Setting Achievements at Memphis

Elliott honed his exceptional kicking prowess during his collegiate career at the University of Memphis from 2013 to 2016. As a star for the Memphis Tigers, he quickly established himself as a dominant force in college football, demonstrating a powerful leg and consistent precision. His tenure at Memphis was marked by numerous accolades and record-breaking performances; he concluded his college career as the program's all-time leading scorer with an impressive 441 points. Elliott earned consensus All-American honors and was a finalist for the prestigious Lou Groza Award, which recognizes the nation's top collegiate placekicker. His consistent success made him one of the most highly touted kicking prospects entering the NFL Draft.

Journey to the NFL and Impact with the Philadelphia Eagles

Jake Elliott’s professional journey began when he was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fifth round (156th overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft. However, his impactful career truly took flight after he was claimed off waivers by the Philadelphia Eagles early in his rookie season. He quickly proved to be a pivotal acquisition for the Eagles, filling a critical role on their special teams unit. As a placekicker, Elliott is entrusted with converting vital field goals and extra points, which often directly determine game outcomes. His ability to deliver in clutch situations became evident early on; notably, during his rookie year, he famously hit a career-long and franchise-record 61-yard game-winning field goal against the New York Giants, a kick that immediately endeared him to the Philadelphia fanbase and showcased his incredible range.

Super Bowl LII Champion: A Defining Moment

The pinnacle of Jake Elliott’s early career came during the 2017 NFL season when he played a crucial role in the Philadelphia Eagles' historic Super Bowl LII championship victory. In a highly anticipated showdown against the perennial powerhouse New England Patriots, Elliott's reliable kicking was indispensable. He successfully converted a 46-yard field goal and a 42-yard field goal in the Super Bowl, contributing valuable points in a high-scoring affair. His composure and precision under the immense pressure of the biggest game in American sports were critical elements of the Eagles' first-ever Super Bowl triumph. Beyond his direct scoring, Elliott was also part of the memorable "Philly Special" trick play; though he wasn't the player to throw or catch the ball, the play originated from a field goal formation, highlighting the intricate role kickers and special teams often play in innovative offensive schemes.

The Critical Role of an NFL Placekicker

In American football, the placekicker position is often understated but undeniably vital. A successful NFL placekicker like Jake Elliott requires a unique blend of physical power, technical precision, and unwavering mental strength. They are responsible for accumulating points through field goals and extra points, often facing game-deciding kicks with the clock winding down. Elliott’s consistency and proven ability to perform accurately from various distances, even in adverse weather conditions, make him a cornerstone of the Eagles' strategy and a highly valued asset in the competitive landscape of the NFL.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jake Elliott

When was Jake Elliott born and where is he from?
Jake Daniel Elliott was born on January 21, 1995, in Western Springs, Illinois.
Which NFL team does Jake Elliott play for and what is his position?
Jake Elliott is an American football placekicker for the Philadelphia Eagles in the National Football League (NFL).
Where did Jake Elliott play college football, and what were his notable achievements?
He played college football at the University of Memphis, where he became the program's all-time leading scorer with 441 points, earned consensus All-American honors, and was a Lou Groza Award finalist.
Was Jake Elliott drafted into the NFL?
Yes, Jake Elliott was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fifth round (156th overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft before joining the Philadelphia Eagles.
Was Jake Elliott part of a Super Bowl winning team?
Yes, Jake Elliott was a key member of the Philadelphia Eagles team that won Super Bowl LII against the New England Patriots in the 2017 season, contributing with multiple field goals in the championship game.
What is one of Jake Elliott's most famous kicks?
One of his most famous kicks is the 61-yard game-winning field goal he made against the New York Giants in his rookie season (2017), which remains a franchise record for the Eagles.