Quick Answer
Russell Erxleben, drafted 11th overall by the Saints in 1979, is the highest drafted kicker ever. Sebastian Janikowski (#17, 2000) is the highest drafted pure kicker.
Who is the Highest Drafted Kicker?
The highest drafted kicker in NFL history is Russell Erxleben, selected 11th overall by the New Orleans Saints in the 1979 draft.
Top 5 Highest Drafted Kickers/Punters
- Russell Erxleben – #11 overall, 1979 (Saints) – Punter/Kicker
- Sebastian Janikowski – #17 overall, 2000 (Raiders) – Kicker
- Ray Guy – #23 overall, 1973 (Raiders) – Punter, Hall of Famer
- Steve Little – #23 overall, 1978 (Cardinals) – Kicker
- Charlie Gogolak – #24 overall, 1966 (Redskins) – Kicker
Was It Worth It?
Erxleben had a mediocre 5-year career and is considered a draft bust. Sebastian Janikowski, however, had a great 19-year career and justified his 1st round pick.
Ray Guy is the only punter in the Hall of Fame and is considered the greatest punter ever.
Modern Kicker Draft Trends
Today, kickers are rarely drafted before Round 4. Teams prefer to sign undrafted kickers or wait until late rounds, as kicker performance is difficult to predict.