|
Morten Andersen (born August 19, 1960, in Struer, Denmark) plays American football.
He began his sporting life as a boy in Copenhagen. As a student in Denmark, he was a gymnast and a long jumper, and barely missed becoming a member of the Danish junior national soccer team. He visited the United States in 1977 as an exchange student. He first kicked an American football on a whim at Ben Davis High School in Indianapolis. He was so impressive in his one season of high school football that he was given a scholarship to Michigan State University.
Andersen starred at Michigan State setting several records. He was named an All American in 1981. His success landed him the kicking job with the New Orleans Saints.
In New Orleans, Andersen had a rocky start. He sprained his ankle on his first ever kickoff and missed two months. He won back the job later in the season and stayed with the club until he was released after the 1994 season. During this time, he was named to six Pro Bowls, kicked 302 field goals, and scored 1318 points. In 1991, against Chicago, Andersen kicked a 60 yard field goal, second longest in league history.
For 1995, Andersen signed with the Atlanta Falcons. He was once again named a Pro Bowler during his time in Atlanta. In December 1995 he became the first player in history to kick three field goals of over 50 yards in a single game. More recently, he has played for the New York Giants and the Kansas City Chiefs, and now kicks for the Minnesota Vikings. Andersen has stated his goal is to play until he turns 50, breaking the record held by George Blanda. Andersen has already broken another Blanda record; on September 26, 2004, he appeared in his 341st NFL game, surpassing Blanda's 340.
Since 1982, Andersen has been in a friendly battle with fellow kicker Gary Anderson as they ascended the career lists for field goals and points. Through the 2004 season, Andersen ranks second all time in field goals (520) and points (2358). He holds the league record for field goals of 50 or more yards with 40, seasons with 100 or more points (13), and games played (354). He also holds the record for scoring in the most consecutive games.
Andersen has stated the goal to become the first player to play in the league after the age of 50. To do this, he would have to play in the 2010 season.
External links
| 
