Fred Cox was a former NFL placekicker who spent his entire career with the Minnesota Vikings. Known for his consistency and accuracy, Cox became one of the most reliable kickers in NFL history, holding several team records with the Vikings. He played a significant role in the success of the team during the 1960s and 1970s, including their multiple Super Bowl appearances.
Early Life and College Career
Full Name: Fred William Cox
Born: January 30, 1942
Hometown: Ellwood City, Pennsylvania
High School:
- Fred Cox attended Lincoln High School in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, where he was a standout athlete in multiple sports, including football. His performance in high school football set the stage for his future career.
College:
- Cox played college football at Pittsburg State University in Kansas, where he was a member of the Pittsburg State Gorillas football team. While at Pitt State, he gained recognition for his leg strength and kicking accuracy. His time in college football helped him develop into a player capable of making the jump to the NFL.
NFL Career
NFL Draft:
- Fred Cox was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 6th round of the 1961 NFL Draft (99th overall pick). He was originally signed as a kicker, but his role with the team evolved over time.
Minnesota Vikings (1961–1977)
- Placekicker:
- Cox played his entire 15-season career with the Minnesota Vikings, from 1961 to 1977.
- He became the Vikings’ starting placekicker early in his career and was known for his consistency and ability to make clutch field goals.
- His accuracy and reliability made him one of the most dependable kickers of his era. During his time with the Vikings, Cox became the team’s all-time leading scorer and established a strong reputation in the league as one of the premier kickers.
- Key Contributions:
- Fred Cox’s most notable contributions were his role in the Vikings’ special teams and his ability to convert field goals and extra points. He was an instrumental part of the Vikings’ offense, particularly in their high-scoring games, and he helped secure many victories with his foot.
- Cox played a key role in the Vikings’ four Super Bowl appearances in the 1970s, although the team did not win a Super Bowl during his career. Despite not being a headline player like some of his teammates, Cox’s consistent kicking was critical to the team’s success in that era.
- He was particularly known for his accuracy on field goals and his ability to make long kicks. At the time of his retirement, Cox was the NFL’s all-time leading scorer, and he held several Vikings records for field goals made.
- Notable Achievements:
- Cox set an NFL record for the longest field goal made at the time, kicking a 52-yard field goal in 1969.
- He was the Vikings’ all-time leading scorer with 1,365 points at the time of his retirement, a record that would stand for many years.
- Cox was a key player for the Vikings throughout the team’s competitive years in the late 1960s and 1970s, and his reliability under pressure made him one of the most trusted kickers in the NFL.
Retirement
- Fred Cox retired after the 1977 season, having spent his entire 15-year career with the Minnesota Vikings.
- By the time he retired, Cox was widely regarded as one of the best kickers of his era. His longevity in the NFL and his consistency over the years allowed him to leave a lasting mark on the Vikings franchise.
Post-NFL Life
- After retiring from football, Fred Cox lived a relatively low-profile life. He was involved in business ventures and spent time in the community. He also became known for his work in promoting kicking clinics for young athletes.
- Cox was a strong supporter of the Minnesota Vikings and remained involved with the team in various capacities after his playing days.
Legacy
- Minnesota Vikings:
- Fred Cox is remembered as one of the most reliable and consistent kickers in the history of the Minnesota Vikings. He played a key role in the team’s success in the 1960s and 1970s and helped solidify the Vikings’ special teams unit.
- Cox’s records, including his career scoring mark, remained unchallenged for many years. He became a fan favorite for his reliability and his clutch kicking ability.
- NFL and Football History:
- Fred Cox’s impact on the NFL goes beyond just his numbers. His ability to consistently perform under pressure, along with his longevity, cemented his place as one of the best kickers of his time.
- Cox’s legacy continues to be remembered by the Vikings and football fans as a key contributor to the team’s success during its competitive years.
Summary
- Position: Placekicker
- NFL Team: Minnesota Vikings (1961–1977)
- Career Length: 15 seasons
- Key Contributions: Consistent kicker, all-time leading scorer for the Vikings at the time of his retirement
- Notable Achievements: NFL record for longest field goal (52 yards in 1969), Vikings all-time leading scorer, four Super Bowl appearances
- Legacy: A reliable kicker who was integral to the success of the Vikings during their Super Bowl years, leaving behind a lasting legacy for the franchise.
Fred Cox may not have been the most celebrated player on the Vikings’ roster, but his reliability, accuracy, and contributions to the team made him a key figure in their success during the 1960s and 1970s. His legacy as one of the best kickers of his era continues to resonate with fans and the Minnesota Vikings organization.