TTM Stats
- Sent: 4/18/2022 | Received: 5/9/2022 | 21 Days
- ’90 Fleer, ’90 Pro Set, ’90 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Ralf Mojsiejenko’s football career is a testament to the impact a specialist can have on the game. Known for his booming punts and versatility as a kickoff specialist, Mojsiejenko left an indelible mark on the NFL during the 1980s. His unique name and skill set made him a memorable figure in football, but his journey is equally about hard work and seizing opportunities.
Ralf Mojsiejenko was born on January 28, 1963, in Salzgitter, Germany, where his father was stationed with the U.S. Army. His family later moved to Bridgman, Michigan, where Ralf grew up and began showcasing his athletic talents. At Bridgman High School, Mojsiejenko excelled as a multi-sport athlete, competing in football, basketball, and track. His natural athleticism and strong leg made him a standout kicker and punter on the football team, setting the stage for a collegiate career.
Mojsiejenko attended Michigan State University, where he became the Spartans’ primary punter and placekicker. His college career was defined by consistency and a powerful leg that caught the attention of NFL scouts. By the time he graduated, he had proven himself as one of the top specialists in the country.
Mojsiejenko entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick (No. 96 overall) by the San Diego Chargers in the 1985 NFL Draft. Over a career spanning six seasons, he played for three teams: the Chargers, Washington Redskins, and San Francisco 49ers.
He made an immediate impact as a punter for the Chargers. Known for his ability to flip the field with booming punts, he quickly gained a reputation for having one of the strongest legs in the league. In addition to punting duties, he handled kickoffs, showcasing his versatility. In 1988, Mojsiejenko led the NFL in punting average with a remarkable 44.1 yards per punt. His ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory made him a valuable asset for the Chargers’ special teams unit.
He was part of the Washington Redskins in 1989 and 1990. While he didn’t seem to have the same leg in Washington, he remained a reliable specialist, known for his professionalism and ability to perform under pressure. He finished his career in San Francisco with the 19ers, playing in five games in the 1991 season.
Mojsiejenko played in 93 NFL games, punting 413 times for an average of 42.5 yards per punt. His career-long punt of 72 yards remains a testament to the power and precision he brought to the game. What set Mojsiejenko apart was not just his leg strength but also his ability to adapt to different teams and roles. He combined distance with hang time, often giving his coverage team a chance to prevent returns.
After retiring from professional football, Ralf Mojsiejenko transitioned to a quieter life away from the public spotlight. He returned to Michigan, where he has been involved in his local community and youth sports initiatives. Mojsiejenko has occasionally made appearances at alumni events and remains proud of his Lithuanian heritage and his journey from Europe to the NFL.
Though he may not have been a household name, Ralf Mojsiejenko’s career highlights the importance of specialists in football. His ability to consistently perform in high-pressure situations earned him the respect of teammates and opponents alike. For fans of the game, Mojsiejenko’s story is a reminder that every player on the field plays a critical role, and his contributions as a punter and kickoff specialist helped shape the outcomes of countless games.
The Score on Ralf Mojsiejenko – 7.0
Ralf has a great signature, but these cards all make it a bit hard for him to show it off. There’s so much to his last name and then so little to his first name that the stacked signature really has a contrast at the top and the bottom. I think the 1990 Topps card is the best of this bunch, but that 1990 Pro Set card has the best image.
Thanks Mr. Mojsiejenko! I’m giving this return a 7.
This is my second successful return from him. To see the first successful return, check out my post from May 2019.
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Pro Football Reference.