Steelers Kicker Before Boswell: A Comprehensive Guide

Alright, Steelers Nation, let's dive into a bit of Steelers history! We all know and love Chris Boswell, the Boz, for his clutch kicks and overall reliability. But before Boswell graced Heinz Field (now Acrisure Stadium) with his kicking prowess, who was the guy booting field goals for the Black and Gold? That's what we're here to explore. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and revisit the Steelers kicker situation before the Boswell era. Understanding the team's kicking history gives us a greater appreciation for the stability and talent that Boswell brings to the Steelers. So, who filled that crucial role before our beloved Boz? Keep reading to find out!

A Look Back at Steelers Kickers Before Chris Boswell

Before Chris Boswell solidified his place as the Steelers' dependable kicker, a few different players held the job, each with their own story. It wasn't always a smooth ride, and the search for consistency was a recurring theme. Let's highlight some of the key figures who preceded Boswell, discussing their tenures, accomplishments, and challenges. Examining these kickers provides context for how crucial a reliable kicker is to a team's success. You know, a missed field goal can be a real heartbreaker, changing the entire game's momentum. So, let's give these guys their due and remember the days before Boswell's arrival.

Shaun Suisham: The Veteran Presence

Shaun Suisham was the primary kicker for the Steelers before Chris Boswell, holding the position from 2010 until he unfortunately suffered a season-ending injury in the 2015 preseason. Suisham brought a veteran presence and a sense of stability to the kicking game. Signed mid-season in 2010 to replace Jeff Reed, Suisham quickly became a reliable option for the Steelers. During his time in Pittsburgh, he proved to be quite accurate, boasting a high field goal percentage. Steelers fans appreciated his consistency, and he became a trusted part of the special teams unit.

Suisham's journey to the Steelers involved stints with several other NFL teams, including the Washington Redskins and Dallas Cowboys. This experience seasoned him and prepared him for the pressure of kicking in a demanding football town like Pittsburgh. He was known for his calm demeanor and ability to perform under pressure, which are essential qualities for any kicker in the NFL.

One of the most memorable moments of Suisham's career with the Steelers was his clutch performance in the playoffs. He consistently delivered in high-stakes situations, earning the trust of his coaches and teammates. His reliability made him a valuable asset to the team, and his contributions were a key part of the Steelers' success during his tenure.

Unfortunately, Suisham's time with the Steelers came to an abrupt end due to a torn ACL and a damaged meniscus suffered during the Hall of Fame Game in 2015. This injury opened the door for Chris Boswell to eventually take over the kicking duties. While his injury was a setback, Suisham's contributions to the Steelers are fondly remembered by fans, who appreciated his reliability and professionalism. He set a high standard for kickers in Pittsburgh, and his legacy remains a part of the Steelers' kicking history.

Garrett Hartley: The Short-Lived Stint

Following Suisham's injury, the Steelers brought in Garrett Hartley to fill the void. Hartley, a former New Orleans Saints kicker, had a Super Bowl ring and a reputation for a strong leg. However, his time in Pittsburgh was unfortunately short-lived. Signed in the 2015 season, Hartley was expected to provide a veteran presence while Suisham recovered.

Despite his previous success with the Saints, Hartley struggled to find consistency during his brief stint with the Steelers. He appeared in only a few preseason games before suffering a hamstring injury that ultimately led to his release. This injury prevented him from showcasing his full potential and solidifying his place on the team. It was a disappointing turn of events for both Hartley and the Steelers, as they had hoped he would provide stability in the kicking game.

Hartley's departure created an opportunity for other kickers to compete for the job, eventually leading to the arrival of Chris Boswell. While his time with the Steelers was brief, Hartley's presence served as a reminder of the challenges involved in finding a reliable kicker. The Steelers' kicking situation remained uncertain until Boswell stepped in and provided the consistency the team desperately needed. Although Hartley's stint in Pittsburgh didn't pan out as hoped, his career serves as an example of the ups and downs that can occur in the world of professional football.

Josh Scobee: The Disappointing Experiment

In a move that many Steelers fans would probably like to forget, Josh Scobee was brought in via trade before Chris Boswell ultimately took over. Scobee's time with the Steelers was marked by inconsistency and missed kicks at critical moments. Acquired from the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2015, Scobee was intended to be the solution to the Steelers' kicking woes following Suisham's injury and Hartley's departure.

However, Scobee's performance quickly became a source of frustration for fans and coaches alike. He missed several crucial field goals, including two in a pivotal game against the Baltimore Ravens. These missed opportunities cost the Steelers valuable points and ultimately contributed to their loss. The pressure mounted on Scobee, and his confidence appeared to wane with each subsequent game.

Scobee's struggles highlighted the importance of mental toughness in football, particularly for kickers. The ability to perform under pressure is essential, and Scobee seemed unable to handle the expectations that came with kicking for a high-profile team like the Steelers. His tenure in Pittsburgh served as a cautionary tale about the challenges of finding a reliable kicker and the impact that missed kicks can have on a team's success.

Ultimately, the Steelers released Scobee after just four games, paving the way for Chris Boswell to take over the kicking duties. Scobee's time in Pittsburgh is remembered as a disappointing experiment, underscoring the need for consistency and reliability in the kicking game. While his career had moments of success, his stint with the Steelers was a stark reminder of the pressure and scrutiny that NFL kickers face.

The Arrival of Chris Boswell: A New Era

The Steelers' kicking situation took a significant turn when Chris Boswell arrived. Signed in 2015, Boswell quickly proved to be the answer the team had been searching for. His consistency, accuracy, and clutch performances earned him the nickname "The Boz" and solidified his place as a fan favorite. From the moment he stepped onto the field, Boswell exuded confidence and a calm demeanor that resonated with both his teammates and the fans.

Boswell's journey to the Steelers was not without its challenges. He had to prove himself in training camp and preseason games to earn the trust of the coaching staff. However, his talent and work ethic quickly became apparent, and he soon won the starting job. Since then, he has consistently delivered for the Steelers, making crucial field goals and extra points in high-pressure situations.

One of the hallmarks of Boswell's career with the Steelers has been his ability to perform in the playoffs. He has consistently come through in critical moments, earning a reputation as a clutch performer. His accuracy and reliability have made him a valuable asset to the team, and his contributions have been a key factor in the Steelers' success.

Boswell's impact extends beyond his kicking abilities. He is also a respected leader in the locker room and a positive influence on his teammates. His professionalism and dedication have made him a role model for younger players, and his presence has helped to create a positive and supportive environment within the team. Chris Boswell has brought stability and excellence to the Steelers' kicking game, marking a new era of reliability and success. The Steelers found their guy, and Steelers Nation couldn't be happier!

Conclusion: Appreciating the Boswell Era

Looking back at the Steelers' kicking history before Chris Boswell, it's clear how much stability and reliability he has brought to the team. The revolving door of kickers, the missed field goals, and the overall uncertainty are now a distant memory. Boswell's arrival marked a turning point, ushering in an era of consistent performance and clutch kicks. His contributions have been instrumental in the Steelers' success, and he has become a beloved figure in Pittsburgh. So, the next time you see Chris Boswell nail a game-winning field goal, take a moment to appreciate the journey the Steelers went through to find their franchise kicker. It's safe to say that the Steelers are in good hands with The Boz! What do you think, guys? Isn't it great to have a reliable kicker? Let us know in the comments below!