Kris Stockton is aware of the proud kicking tradition at the University of Texas.
"I guess it makes me look better," he said jokingly while recalling former Longhorn greats Russell Erxleben, Phil Dawson, Jeff Ward and Michael Pollack.
Like his predecessors, Stockton emerged as a team leader willing to wear different hats in order to ensure success in Austin.
"Kris has been important to our team because he has done everything," said head coach Mack Brown. "He has not only done a great job of kicking off and punting, but has won three games since our staff has been here on field goals. He brings the whole package to us and has been a great leader."
Consistency is Stockton's trademark. He enjoyed an exceptional senior season accounting for 111 points. His three field goals against Texas A&M set the UT record for career percentage — formally held by Dawson. In addition, Stockton paced the Big 12 with 22 field goals, another Longhorn record.
"That game was probably one of my most proud games," he said of the 43-17 thrashing of the rival Aggies. "The other was against Texas Tech."
Against the Red Raiders last November, Stockton kicked a school-record five field goals en route to a 29-17 win.
While breaking records as a kicker, Stockton also handled punting duties the past two seasons, averaging 38.6 yards.
"I punted three years out of necessity. I've always had to punt at practice, even when I was only kicking," he said. "However, I've always considered myself more of a kicker."
However, Stockton is willing to continue his dual responsibilty if it means landing a roster spot in the NFL.
"I will do whatever they want me to do," Stockton said. "If they want me to punt then I will punt. I think my punting has gotten a lot better the last couple of years."
Stockton, even with his willingness to do whatever is asked, is realistic about being drafted in April.
"I don't know if I'll be drafted or not, I don't think it is all that important," the native of Katy, Texas, said. "With kickers, especially, it is more about going into training camp — fighting, competing and winning the job in camp."
