John Robert Hekker Bio
John Robert Hekker is an American professional football punter currently playing for the Tennessee Titans in the National Football League (NFL). He began his NFL career in 2012 with the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent and has since established himself as one of the league’s premier punters. Hekker has earned four First-team All-Pro selections and four Pro Bowl appearances, and he holds the NFL record for the longest punt in Super Bowl history with a 65-yard punt in Super Bowl LIII.
Early Life and Background
John Robert Hekker was born on February 8, 1990, in Redmond, Washington. He attended Bothell High School in Bothell, Washington, where he was the starting quarterback and punter during his senior year. He led his high school football team to the State Championship game, showcasing his early talent in football. In addition to football, Hekker briefly played basketball during his senior year, demonstrating his athletic versatility.
Path to American Football
Hekker played college football at Oregon State University for the Oregon State Beavers. As a four-year starter, he became one of the most prolific punters in the school’s history. He set a single-game school record with a 52.5-yard average in 2011 and ranked third in career punt yardage at Oregon State. Hekker earned several accolades during his college career, including the Sun Bowl Special Teams MVP in 2008 and multiple mentions on the Ray Guy Award watch lists. His consistent performance in college paved the way for his entry into the NFL.
John Robert Hekker Career
Early Career (2012–2013)
Hekker entered the NFL in 2012 when he signed with the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent. He quickly made an impact, earning a nomination for Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Week early in his rookie season. Hekker demonstrated his versatility by throwing a touchdown pass on a fake field goal, becoming the first Rams punter to do so since the AFL-NFL merger. He set a franchise record for gross punting average in a single game and finished his rookie season with a 45.8-yard average.
St. Louis / Los Angeles Rams Breakthrough (2013–2021)
Hekker’s second season solidified his reputation as an elite punter. He broke the single-season record for net punt yards and earned his first Pro Bowl and First Team All-Pro honors. In 2014, he signed a six-year, $18 million contract extension, the largest ever for a punter at that time. Throughout his tenure with the Rams, Hekker led the league in net punting average multiple times and set NFL records for punts downed inside the 20-yard line. He was a key contributor to the Rams’ playoff runs, including their appearance in Super Bowl LIII, where he set a Super Bowl record with a 65-yard punt. Hekker won Super Bowl LVI with the Rams, further cementing his legacy.
Carolina Panthers Era (2022–2024)
In March 2022, Hekker signed a three-year contract with the Carolina Panthers. During his time with the Panthers, he maintained a strong punting average, consistently delivering over 45 yards per punt each season. His performance remained a vital part of the Panthers’ special teams unit through the 2024 season.
Tennessee Titans Era (2025–Present)
In March 2025, Hekker signed a one-year contract with the Tennessee Titans. This move marks the latest chapter in his ongoing NFL career, where he continues to bring veteran experience and skill to the Titans’ special teams.
Driving Style and Strengths
John Hekker is known for his powerful leg and precision punting, excelling at placing punts inside the opponent’s 20-yard line to limit return opportunities. His ability to execute fake punts with successful passes adds a strategic dimension to his play. Hekker’s consistency and field awareness have made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for.
Notable Events and Milestones
Hekker holds the NFL record for the longest punt in Super Bowl history with a 65-yard punt during Super Bowl LIII. He has been selected to four Pro Bowls and earned four First-team All-Pro honors. His contributions helped the Rams win Super Bowl LVI, marking a career-defining achievement.
John Robert Hekker Career Wins
While punters do not accumulate traditional wins like other positions, Hekker’s career is distinguished by numerous accolades and records that highlight his impact on the game. His consistent performance has been instrumental in his teams’ successes, including playoff appearances and a Super Bowl victory.
St. Louis / Los Angeles Rams Highlights
During his ten seasons with the Rams, Hekker set franchise and NFL records, including the single-season net punt yardage record and the longest Super Bowl punt. He earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and was recognized as a First-team All-Pro four times. His tenure with the Rams culminated in a Super Bowl LVI championship.
Other Wins & Performances
Hekker’s time with the Carolina Panthers saw him maintain high punting averages and contribute significantly to the special teams unit. His ability to adapt and perform consistently across different teams underscores his professionalism and skill.
John Robert Hekker Family
Personal Life
John Hekker is married to his wife, Makayla. Together, they have three children. Hekker is known to be a Christian and maintains a private family life outside of his professional career.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, John Hekker joined the Tennessee Titans on a one-year contract. His veteran presence is expected to strengthen the Titans’ special teams unit. With his proven track record of precision punting and strategic plays, Hekker aims to continue his high level of performance and contribute to the Titans’ success in the upcoming season.