Jake McQuaide

Jake McQuaide's Biography

Jacob McQuaide, an acclaimed American professional long snapper, was born on December 7, 1987. Currently a free agent, he began his professional football journey in 2011 when he was signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent. Prior to his professional career, he was a notable member of the Ohio State Buckeyes, showcasing his emerging football skills on the college field.

McQuaide’s formative years took place at Elder High School where the seeds of his future football triumphs were sown. His contribution to the school’s football team during his sophomore year enabled them to secure an OHSAA State Championship. By his senior year, McQuaide was credited with 10 receptions for 125 yards as a tight end. His athletic prowess was not limited to football, as he also exhibited talent on the basketball court.

As a walk-on at Ohio State University, McQuaide continued to refine his skills. In his redshirt freshman year, he alternated as a long snapper in the first seven games alongside fellow seniors Dimitrios Makridis and Jackson Haas. However, due to inconsistency issues, he was extracted from the rotation and didn’t play in the season’s concluding six matches.

This minor setback didn’t dampen McQuaide’s spirit. Returning with a new resolve in his sophomore year, he earned the position of the team’s long snapper for punts and placement kicks. This achievement was amplified by earning a football scholarship. McQuaide maintained his long snapper position throughout his college years but was unfortunately unable to take snaps or record any stats within the tight end slot. Despite this, he celebrated being part of three Big Ten Conference championships in 2007, 2008, and 2009.

McQuaide’s professional induction occurred post-2011 NFL draft on July 29, when he was enlisted as an undrafted free agent by the St. Louis Rams. Surpassing Chris Massey, he secured the long snapper position as a rookie. In what would be a decade-long tenure with the Rams from 2011 to 2020, McQuaide appeared in every game, rendering him a reliable constant in the team. His performance was recognized with consecutive Pro Bowl selections as a ‘need’ player in both 2017 and 2018.

On March 9, 2018, McQuaide’s association with the Rams was solidified with a three-year contract extension lasting until 2020. Over this period, he completed all 160 regular season games and claimed 10 special teams tackles.

2021 saw a shift in McQuaide’s career trajectory. Joining the Dallas Cowboys on March 22, he replaced long snapper L.P. Ladouceur. This move reunited him with his former Rams coach, John Fassel, and ex-teammate placekicker Greg Zuerlein.

However, in a game against Washington Commanders, McQuaide’s tenure was disrupted by an unfortunate left tricep tear. This injury forced him to sit out from the first games of his career, and he was subsequently replaced by Matt Overton.

On March 20, 2023, McQuaide transitioned to the Detroit Lions with a one-year contract. After being waived on August 7, he was re-engaged to the practice squad on November 1, stepping in for Scott Daly who had acquired an injury. By November 15, he was signed to the active roster, marking yet another poignant chapter in his professional football career.