The top kickers in Cincinnati Bengals history have all had a role in some of the franchise’s most memorable moments. NFL games may be decided by one or two points, making every successful or failed kick crucial, and every starting kicker a potential hero.
Below is a list of my top 5 Best Place Kickers in the History of the Cincinnati Bengals.
Jim Breech
Jim Breech established his legacy as the Bengals’ finest kicker by concluding his career with 1,151 points, the highest in franchise history.
It’s not easy being a kicker. When you make the kick, you’re a hero. After a few misses, you’re also in danger of losing your job.
Breech attributes his achievements in his profession to his mental toughness and regimen.
Mike Nugent
Mike Nugent’s departure from the Cincinnati Bengals was unlucky. In his six years with the Bengals, he scored 718 points, second only to Jim Breech (1,151) and Shayne Graham (789) in team history. Unfortunately, he will be known for at least a short time for his missed field goals and extra points during the 2016 NFL season, which led the Bengals to break relations with Nugent.
Shayne Graham
Graham moved about between the Seahawks, Bills, and Panthers after being signed and dismissed by the Saints until being grabbed off waivers by the Bengals in 2003. Under new coach Marvin Lewis, he finally found his stride and stayed with the squad, hitting 88 percent of his field-goal tries that season. In 2004, he held down the position and aided the Bengals to a memorable 2005 season, earning the team’s first and only Pro Bowl berth for a kicker in franchise history.
Horst Muhlmann
Horst Muhlmann in Buffalo, Nov. 8, 1970 — In a 43-16 Bengals victory, he made all five of his field goal tries and all four of his extra-point attempts.
Horst Muhlmann vs. Pittsburgh at Riverfront Stadium, Sept. 24, 1972 — He completed all five of his passes in a 15-10 Bengals victory.
Doug Pelfrey
Doug Pelfrey in Kansas City on October 10, 1993 – In a 17-15 defeat, the youngster made all five of his shots.
Doug Pelfrey in Houston, Oct. 24, 1993 – When he struck from 53 and 50 yards out in a 28-12 loss, the then-rookie became only the second kicker in franchise history to make two field goals of 50 yards or more in the same game.
