Media guide musings: Signed by the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent out of Penn State in 2005. Waived by New England, spent three weeks on the Baltimore practice squad in Sept. 2005, signed by the Bears Oct. 8, 2005, signed through 2008. Most accurate kicker in Bears history with at least 25 attempts. Twice named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week. Majored in management and Penn St., where he ranks 5th all-time in points scored. Father, Robert, played pro soccer for the St. Louis Steamers.
Vitals: 6 feet, 183 pounds
Favorite pro team growing up: New England Patriots
College team growing up: “Didn’t really have one. If I had to say one, Penn State, I guess. That’s where I went.”
Favorite non-football sport to play: Basketball
To watch: Basketball
Favorite player growing up: Adam Vinatieri
What’s on the iPod when you work out? “Little bit of everything. Mostly country.”
Toughest 1-on-1 match-up you’ve ever faced: “It really isn’t [an issue for a kicker]. I think the biggest thing is facing yourself. That’s the toughest match-up you have.”
Favorite game you’ve ever played in: “[Minnesota in Week 3], you know, it was a great game. Two teams goin’ at it real hard, and obviously, four field goals [and a career long].”
Favorite game you’ve watched as a fan: Any Patriots Super Bowl
Toughest loss you’ve ever had as a player: “All of them are tough.”
Toughest loss you’ve watched as a fan: “New England losing, you know? Never want your favorite team to lose.”
Favorite team right now not named “Bears”: Chicago Bulls and Chicago White Sox.
Best advice you ever received: “Attack your fears and fulfill your dreams
High school mascot: Wildcats
Toughest rivalry you’ve been a part of: Penn State-Ohio State
TV show you can’t miss: Grey’s Anatomy
Last book you read: “Everyone else is saying their playbook, aren’t they? … The last book I read is probably ‘Five People You Meet in Heaven.’ “
Favorite movie: Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby
