Harry Kane Eyes NFL Kicker Career After Football Retirement

England’s record‑scoring captain Harry Kane revealed he is seriously considering a future as an NFL kicker once his football career winds down. The 33‑year‑old highlighted his penalty‑taking skills as a potential advantage and mentioned the possibility of an MLS stint to bridge the two sports. He r…

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 24 Sep 2026 08:03:11 GMT

England’s prolific striker Harry Kane announced that he is contemplating a switch to American football after he retires from the sport he has dominated for over a decade. The 33‑year‑old, who has scored 85 goals in 121 international appearances, said the idea of becoming an NFL kicker is something he would like to explore in the next five to six years.

From the Pitch to the Gridiron

During a press conference at England’s UEFA Nations League training camp, Kane explained that his experience taking penalties could translate well into the high‑pressure role of an NFL placekicker. He noted that the mechanics of a penalty kick—precision, timing, and composure—mirror those required to hit a football from a long distance. "I take penalties and it is a very similar pressure and technique," he said. "If I was to do it, it is something I would take seriously. I would take maybe six months to a year of trying to practise beforehand."

While Kane has previously hinted at a career in golf, he now considers American football to be a more realistic alternative. He added that the NFL’s schedule and style of play could allow him to maintain his football career for a few more years before making a full transition.

MLS as a Bridge Between Sports

In addition to the NFL, Kane floated the idea of moving to Major League Soccer (MLS) as a way to keep his football career alive while preparing for a potential American football role. "Maybe if I am in the MLS in the future or somewhere like that it might be a thing where you could connect the two maybe with the seasons," he said. The suggestion points to a strategy that could let him play in a less demanding league while training for the specific skills required in the NFL.

Other Athletes Who Have Made the Switch

Kane is not alone in thinking about a crossover. Former Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey was drafted by Toronto FC in the MLS but never appeared for the first team, while college football player Jake Bates went on to play as a kicker for the Detroit Lions. These examples illustrate that while rare, a move from soccer to American football is not unheard of.

Current Focus and Future Negotiations

Despite the intriguing prospect of a new career, Kane remains committed to his current role at Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich. He is in the midst of contract negotiations with the German club, which are expected to conclude shortly. "We’re in good talks," Kane told reporters. "There’s still some things that we need to iron out. I’m happy there. I think it won’t be too long before there’s some sort of announcement."

In the meantime, Kane will continue to lead England’s national team and contribute to Bayern’s domestic and European campaigns. The striker’s future, whether it remains on the soccer field or moves to the gridiron, will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.

What Happens Next?

As the contract talks with Bayern Munich reach a conclusion, Kane’s next steps will become clearer. If he signs a new deal, he will likely finish the 2025‑26 season before evaluating his options for an American football career. Should he decide to pursue the NFL, he will need to undergo rigorous training and possibly spend a season in MLS to adapt to the different demands of the sport.

Until then, Kane’s focus remains on football, both at the club and international levels. The prospect of a future NFL kicker, however, adds an intriguing layer to his already storied career and keeps fans guessing about what lies ahead for the England captain.

Key facts

Harry Kane is seriously considering a future as an NFL kicker after his football career.
His penalty‑taking experience could give him an edge in American football.
He also mentioned a possible MLS stint to bridge the two sports.
Contract negotiations with Bayern Munich are ongoing and will determine his immediate future.
Other athletes have made similar transitions, showing the feasibility of such a switch.

Why it matters

Kane’s potential move highlights the growing crossover between sports and showcases how elite athletes can leverage their skills across disciplines, offering fans a fresh narrative about career longevity and adaptability.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main reason Harry Kane is considering a career in American football?

He believes his penalty‑taking experience and the pressure involved in kicking would translate well into the role of an NFL placekicker.

Will Kane retire from football immediately if he joins the NFL?

No, he said he would likely finish several more seasons in football before making a full transition to the NFL.

Has Harry Kane expressed interest in any other sports?

Yes, he has previously mentioned a potential career in golf, but he now views the NFL as a more realistic option.

How might MLS play a role in Kane’s transition?

He suggested that playing in MLS could allow him to maintain his football career while preparing for the NFL, taking advantage of the different seasonal schedules.