TTM Stats
- Sent: 6/28/2022 | Received: 7/9/2022 | 11 Days
- ’90 Score, ’91 Score, ’92 GameDay
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
In the world of football, kickers often operate in the background—called upon in high-pressure moments, expected to deliver with calm precision. Jeff Jaeger made a career of doing just that. Known for his dependability and cool demeanor, Jaeger was one of the most accurate and productive placekickers in the NFL during the 1990s. From college records to NFL consistency, Jaeger’s football journey is a story of steady excellence and quiet contribution.
Jeffrey Todd Jaeger was born on November 26, 1964, in Tacoma, Washington. He played high school football at Kent-Meridian High School, where he quickly showed a natural talent for kicking. His strong leg and pinpoint accuracy earned him a spot with the University of Washington Huskies as a walk-on—a decision that would set the stage for a historic college career.
At Washington, Jaeger became one of the most prolific kickers in NCAA history. He finished his college career as the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer at the time, with 358 points. His durability and consistency made him a four-year starter, and he helped lead the Huskies to multiple bowl appearances. In 1986, he earned All-American honors and cemented his status as one of the best collegiate kickers of his era.
Jaeger was drafted in the third round of the 1987 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns—a relatively high pick for a kicker. He played one season in Cleveland before joining the Los Angeles Raiders in 1989. It was with the Raiders (both in Los Angeles and later Oakland) that Jaeger enjoyed the most success of his professional career.
From 1989 to 1995, Jaeger became a staple for the Raiders’ special teams unit. His best season came in 1993 when he led the NFL in scoring with 132 points. He had earned a Pro Bowl selection two years prior, but that not in that league leading year. That season, he hit 35 field goals—at the time, one of the best single-season marks in league history.
Jaeger later spent four seasons with the Chicago Bears (1996–1999) before retiring. Over his 12-year NFL career, he made 229 field goals and scored 1,072 total points, finishing with a field goal percentage over 74%—an impressive figure during an era when kicking was far less automated than it is today.
After retiring from the NFL, Jaeger stepped away from the spotlight and focused on life outside the game. He returned to Washington state and has remained involved in community and youth sports, occasionally working with young kickers or appearing at University of Washington events.
Though he’s kept a relatively low profile, Jaeger’s impact is still felt—particularly among Raiders fans and Husky faithful who remember his poise and production on the field.
Jeff Jaeger may not have the name recognition of some of his contemporaries, but his career stands as a shining example of what it means to be a consistent professional. In an often unpredictable role, Jaeger provided stability. He didn’t crave the limelight, but when games were on the line, he delivered.
From college record books to NFL leaderboards, Jaeger’s quiet excellence left a mark on the game. For those who watched him play, he’s remembered not just for his numbers—but for his dependability, his work ethic, and the calm confidence that defined his time on the field.
In a game full of flash and flair, Jeff Jaeger proved that sometimes the biggest contributions come from the most unassuming places—like the steady foot of a kicker who just kept getting the job done.
The Score on Jeff Jaeger – 7.0
Jeff did a great job on these cards. Regular readers will know that I like a name that has repetition because its a great opportunity for some extra style in an autograph. He certainly has that. I think the best version of this is on the 1993 GameDay card. The Raiders uniform, black and white background and then black marker look awesome.
Thanks Mr. Jaeger! I’m giving this return a 7.
This is my second successful return from him. To see the first return, check out my post from June 2020.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Pro Football Reference.