Jim O'Brien (born July 10, 1947) is a former American football player who was a kicker in the National Football League (NFL) for the Baltimore Colts, Detroit Lions, and Miami Dolphins. He is most notably recognized for kicking the game-winning 32-yard field goal with five seconds remaining in Super Bowl V, securing the Baltimore Colts' 16–13 victory over the Dallas Cowboys.
Early Life and College Career Born in El Paso, Texas, O'Brien attended the University of Cincinnati. During his college career with the Cincinnati Bearcats, he showcased his versatility, playing as both a kicker and a wide receiver. His performance at the collegiate level drew the attention of NFL scouts.
Professional Career O'Brien was selected by the Baltimore Colts in the third round of the 1970 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he quickly established himself as the team's primary kicker. His defining moment came on January 17, 1971, in Super Bowl V, where his clutch field goal in the final seconds delivered the Colts their first Super Bowl championship.
Following his memorable rookie season with the Colts, O'Brien played one more season with the team in 1971. He was then traded to the Detroit Lions for the 1972 season. His final NFL season was in 1973 with the Miami Dolphins. Over his four-year NFL career, O'Brien played in 46 games, converting 31 of 63 field goal attempts and 108 of 115 extra point attempts.
Post-Football After retiring from professional football, O'Brien pursued various business interests. He remains a significant figure in NFL history due to his iconic Super Bowl-winning kick, which is often replayed in highlights of the league's most dramatic moments.