Morten Andersen

Learn about Morten Andersen: the Danish-born kicker who became an NFL legend. Explore his journey from Denmark to the States, record-breaking career, philosophy, and enduring impact on American football.

Introduction

Morten Andersen (born August 19, 1960) is a retired Danish-American professional American football placekicker widely regarded as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history.

Nicknamed “The Great Dane”, Andersen’s journey from Denmark to the NFL remains a remarkable story of adaptation, precision, longevity, and resilience.

Early Life and Background

Morten Andersen was born in Copenhagen, Denmark on August 19, 1960. Struer in western Jutland.

As a youth, Andersen excelled in athletics: gymnastics, long jump, and track & field among his interests.

In 1977, he came to the United States as an exchange student, attending high school in Indianapolis. Ben Davis High School, that he first kicked an American football — by chance — and impressed enough to earn a scholarship to Michigan State University.

At Michigan State (1978–1981), he starred as a kicker, earning All-Big Ten honors and becoming a first-team All-American in 1981.

Professional Career & Achievements

NFL Entry & Early Years with the Saints

Andersen was drafted in 1982 in the 4th round (86th overall) by the New Orleans Saints.

During his 13 seasons in New Orleans (1982–1994), Andersen became a fixture in the city and a scoring machine. He scored 1,318 points for the Saints — the franchise record.

One of his standout feats: in 1991, Andersen booted a 60-yard field goal, which at the time tied one of the longest ever made.

He left the Saints after the 1994 season (due to salary cap pressure and declining accuracy) but had laid a foundation of consistency and reliability.

Atlanta Falcons & Later Teams

In 1995, Andersen signed with the Atlanta Falcons, where he continued to silence skeptics and extend his legacy.

A highlight of his Falcons tenure: in the 1998 NFC Championship Game, Andersen kicked a clutch field goal in overtime to send Atlanta to their first Super Bowl appearance (Super Bowl XXXIII).

During his career he also played for other teams: New York Giants (2001), Kansas City Chiefs (2002–2003), Minnesota Vikings (2004), and returned to the Falcons (2006–2007) to close out his legendary run.

Even late in his career — in his mid-40s — Andersen remained effective. In 2007, he converted 25 of 28 field goals (89.3%), his most accurate season ever, at age 47.

Records & Milestones

By the end of his career, Andersen held numerous NFL records:

• Most games played (382)

• Most consecutive seasons scoring

• Most consecutive games scoring

• He was the all-time leading scorer (2,544 points) until surpassed by Adam Vinatieri.

• High standings in FGs made (565) and excellent accuracy (79.7%).

He also garnered many honors:

• 7× Pro Bowl selections

• Named to NFL All-Decade Teams (1980s, 1990s)

• Inductions into several halls of fame: Saints Hall of Fame (2009), Louisiana Sports Hall, Michigan State Hall, and ultimately Pro Football Hall of Fame (2017)

Personality, Traits & Style

• Andersen was known for his calm under pressure, consistency, and ability to perform late in close games.

• His nickname “The Great Dane” referenced both his Danish roots and the dignified manner in which he approached his craft.

• He performed at a high level well into his 40s, demonstrating great care for his physical condition and technique.

• Andersen’s journey reflects humility and grit — from a foreign exchange student experimenting with American football to one of its most prolific scorers.

Legacy and Influence

Morten Andersen’s legacy is multifaceted:

• He broadened perceptions: as a non-American who succeeded in the NFL, he showed that international athletes can excel in American football.

• He set the standard for longevity at the kicker position. His career length, point totals, and records raise the bar for future generations.

• His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame places him among the elite few special teams players ever honored.

• For Saints and Falcons fans, Andersen remains a beloved figure — a symbol of reliability, clutch performance, and consistency.

• His story continues to inspire kickers, athletes, and fans who view him as an example of transcending origins, pushing limits, and carving a legendary path.

Lessons from Morten Andersen

1. Craft & consistency matter more than flash
   Andersen’s success came not from showmanship, but from doing his job over and over, with precision and composure.

2. Longevity is a skill
   Maintaining performance across decades requires adaptation, resilience, discipline, and mental strength.

3. Opportunity can come unexpectedly
   A chance encounter with American football in high school led to his entire career; seizing moments matters.

4. Crossing boundaries
   Andersen’s path as a Danish athlete in the NFL shows how passion and talent can bridge cultural and sporting divides.

5. Performance under pressure
   His clutch kicks in big games illustrate how mental strength is as vital as physical ability.

Conclusion

Morten Andersen’s life and career tell a remarkable story of ambition, adaptation, precision, and endurance. From a Danish teenager kicking a football for the first time to one of the NFL’s all-time greatest scorers and Hall of Famer, he transformed the role of kicker and pushed the boundaries of what’s possible for specialists.