After a remarkable 18-year career in the National Football League (NFL), Robbie Gould, the former kicker for the San Francisco 49ers and the Chicago Bears, has officially announced his retirement. In an exclusive story for The Players’ Tribune, Gould expressed his deep appreciation for the game that has been an integral part of his life. With countless accomplishments to his name, including ranking 10th in all-time points scored and eighth in field goals made, his retirement marks the end of an era.
Gould’s career statistics speak for themselves, showcasing his unmatched consistency. With a career success rate of 86.4% on field goal attempts, he solidifies his place as one of the most reliable kickers in NFL history. His contributions to the San Francisco 49ers, especially during his tenure under coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch, have been significant. As one of the first free agents signed by the team, Gould’s impact on their success cannot be undermined.
Throughout his career, Gould demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure. He excelled in the playoffs, making all 29 field goal attempts, including eight in the 2022 postseason. One of his most memorable kicks occurred during a playoff game against the Green Bay Packers in January 2022. With just four seconds left on the clock, Gould successfully kicked a 45-yard field goal, propelling the 49ers into the NFC Championship Game. Although the team did not ultimately win the Super Bowl that season, the significance of that kick was not lost on Gould. It was a moment that he cherished, as it allowed him to showcase his talent and bring joy to the passionate Bears fans.
Before his time with the 49ers, Gould spent 10 seasons with the Bears and one season with the New York Giants. Chicago became more than just a city to him; it became his home, where he met his wife and raised his three children. The bond he formed with the Bears organization and its fans was truly special. As the Bears’ all-time leading scorer with 1,207 points, Gould left an indelible mark on the franchise. He reminisced about the deep playoff runs and the countless memories created during his time in Chicago. Ultimately, he hopes that he made Bears fans proud, as they deserve nothing less.
For Gould, retirement symbolizes more than just the end of a chapter; it marks the beginning of a new stage in his life. He acknowledges the sacrifices his family has made throughout his career and the invaluable time that was lost. Now, with his NFL journey complete, Gould looks forward to prioritizing his family and being fully present in their lives. With his oldest child being 10 years old and having spent large chunks of time away from him and his two younger sons, Gould realizes the importance of this next chapter.
As Robbie Gould bids farewell to the NFL, his legacy as one of the greatest kickers in the league’s history remains intact. His remarkable consistency, clutch performances, and unwavering dedication to his craft have solidified his place among the all-time greats. While his retirement marks the end of his time on the field, his impact will continue to resonate within the NFL and the hearts of fans for years to come. As he embarks on this new journey, Robbie Gould leaves behind a lasting legacy that will be remembered and celebrated by football enthusiasts around the world.
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