Remembering Reggie Roby: A Legacy of Power and Precision

Today marks what would have been the 63rd birthday of the late Reggie Roby, a football legend whose impact on the game continues to be remembered and celebrated. Born in Waterloo, Iowa, Roby was a standout athlete from an early age, making waves at East High School as a Parade All-American. His exceptional skills on the field caught the attention of multiple professional scouts, and he was even drafted by the Cincinnati Reds as a pitcher. However, Roby chose a different path, opting to accept a football scholarship to the University of Iowa.

Upon arriving in Iowa City in 1979, Roby quickly made a name for himself with his formidable kicking abilities. Standing 6’4″ and weighing 250 pounds, Roby’s presence on the field was imposing, and his powerful leg garnered significant attention from the start. Iowa’s head coach, Hayden Fry, utilized Roby’s talents in various roles, including punter, kick-off specialist, and even long-range field goal kicker. Roby’s senior year in 1982 was particularly notable as he set an NCAA record with a remarkable 49.8-yard average per punt. His career average of 45.4 yards per punt remains an Iowa record to this day.

Roby’s excellence did not go unnoticed, and after an impressive college career, he was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the sixth round of the 1983 NFL Draft. In the professional league, Roby was renowned for having one of the strongest legs in football, with his punts characterized by extraordinary hang time. This skill was a game-changer, often forcing opponents to call fair catches as the ball soared high above the Orange Bowl. Roby spent a significant portion of his 16 NFL seasons with the Dolphins and was a three-time Pro Bowl selection. His unique approach included wearing a wristwatch during games to monitor the hang time of his punts—a testament to his dedication and precision.

Tragically, Reggie Roby’s life was cut short when he passed away from a heart attack in 2005, at the age of 43. His death was attributed to an enlarged heart, a heartbreaking loss for the football community and his many fans.

As we remember Reggie Roby today, we honor not only his remarkable achievements on the field but also the indelible mark he left on the sport. His legacy lives on through his records, his contributions to the game, and the memories of those who had the privilege of witnessing his extraordinary talent.