Florida State University (FSU) is set to honor one of its most legendary football players, Sebastian Janikowski, by retiring his iconic No. 38 jersey. This momentous occasion will take place on August 29 during the Seminoles' 2026 season opener against New Mexico State. With this honor, Janikowski will join an elite group as the 13th player in FSU history to have his number retired, a testament to his impactful legacy at the university.
Janikowski, known for his powerful left leg, made a name for himself long before he donned the garnet and gold of FSU. While at Seabreeze High School, he gained recognition for his remarkable kicking ability, notably hitting five field goals from 50 yards or more during his senior year. His standout performance included a 60-yard field goal against Palatka, a record-setting kick that was the longest in Volusia County and the second-longest in the history of the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA).
In addition to his prowess on the football field, Janikowski also excelled in soccer, where he set a state record by scoring 73 goals while playing for the Sandcrabs. His athletic versatility showcased his competitive spirit and skill, which would later translate into his successful football career.
Upon joining FSU, Janikowski continued to break records and garner accolades. He remains the only two-time recipient of the Lou Groza Award, which is awarded annually to the nation’s best kicker. His freshman year in 1997 saw him break the FSU record with a 56-yard field goal, and as a sophomore, he set the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) single-season record by successfully making 27 field goals. In his junior year, he led the nation with 23 field goals, playing a crucial role in helping the Seminoles secure their second national championship.
Throughout his three-year collegiate career, Janikowski converted 66 of 83 field-goal attempts, solidifying his reputation as one of the top kickers in college football. His contributions to the program were recognized when he was inducted into the FSU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2013, further cementing his status as a Seminole great.
Janikowski's success continued in the NFL when he was selected 17th overall by the Oakland Raiders in the 2000 NFL Draft, making him one of only five kickers ever to be chosen in the first round. He spent an impressive 17 seasons with the Raiders, where he became the franchise's all-time leader in made field goals, totaling 414. One of his most memorable moments came in 2011 when he tied the NFL record with a stunning 63-yard field goal.
After a final season with the Seattle Seahawks in 2018, Janikowski retired, leaving behind a legacy that spans both college and professional football. The upcoming retirement of his jersey at FSU not only honors his individual achievements but also celebrates his enduring impact on the Seminoles football program and the sport as a whole.
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