Talented Norwegian Kicker Grabs Attention of NFL [VIDEO]
Jan Stenerud was a placekicker for three AFL/NFL teams from 1967 to 1985. Stenerud arrived in the US from his native Norway on a ski-jumping scholarship but was recruited into his college’s football program after his kicking skills were noticed. After a professional football career spanning 19 seasons, Stenerud was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Havard Rugland, a 27-year-old Norwegian, is attempting to follow in the footsteps of his countryman. After Rugland posted a video of himself showing off his talents kicking an American football, he was contacted by three U.S. College teams and was invited for a tryout by the New York Jets.
“It went well. They tested me on field goals and kickoffs. Obviously you feel a little more pressure here, but I stayed pretty calm.” — Havard Rugland
Rugland has no American football experience, but former NFL placekicker and kicking coach Michael Husted sees potential after working with him in San Diego.
“Havard has incredible talent as a kicker. He has a cannon for a leg. As he continues to refine his technique, he could be one of the strongest kickers in the NFL. He reminds me a lot of (Oakland’s Sebastian) Janikowski in terms of stature and strength.” — Michael Husted
Watch the incredible video posted to YouTube below.
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