Last Updated on October 30, 2026 by Valentim Tereshkova
Zane Gonzalez is an American professional football player who plays as a placekicker for the Miami Dolphins in the National Football League (NFL). Known for his powerful kicking ability and impressive college football achievements, Gonzalez has played for several NFL teams, including the Cleveland Browns, Arizona Cardinals, Carolina Panthers, Washington Commanders and Atlanta Falcons. Away from football, he is a husband and father who has spoken openly about the importance of family in his personal and professional life.
Born on May 7, 1995, in Texas, Zane Holden Fortunato Gonzalez grew up in Deer Park alongside his brother, Zach, and sister, Skylar. His father, Joseph Gonzalez, played a particularly important role in raising the children following his parents’ separation. Today, Gonzalez is married to Lizzy Mireya Martinez, and the couple welcomed their son, Luca, in December 2024. Here is what is publicly known about Zane Gonzalez’s wife, children, parents and siblings.
Zane Gonzalez’s Wife: Who Is Lizzy Martinez?
Zane Gonzalez is married to Lizzy Mireya Martinez, also known as Lizzy Gonzalez.
The couple has maintained a long-term relationship that reportedly began during Gonzalez’s college football career at Arizona State University.
According to a January 2025 report published by Sports Illustrated, the couple’s relationship dates back to approximately 2016.
Lizzy has supported Gonzalez throughout different stages of his professional football career, including his time with the Washington Commanders.
Unlike many professional athletes who maintain complete privacy regarding their relationships, Gonzalez has publicly acknowledged his wife during interviews.
Lizzy has also shared messages celebrating her husband’s achievements and defending him against criticism on social media.
When Did Zane Gonzalez and Lizzy Martinez Get Married?
Zane Gonzalez and Lizzy Martinez married in April 2024.
The wedding marked an important personal milestone for the couple after several years together.
Reports published in January 2025 confirmed their marriage, with Sports Illustrated identifying Lizzy as Gonzalez’s wife.
Although their marriage is publicly documented, detailed information about the wedding ceremony and location has not been extensively reported by established publications.
The couple subsequently welcomed their first child later in 2024.
What Is Known About Lizzy Martinez?
Lizzy Mireya Martinez became publicly known through her relationship with Zane Gonzalez and her appearances supporting him during NFL games.
She has maintained a social media presence where she occasionally shares family moments and celebrates her husband’s achievements.
However, reliable public information about her date of birth, occupation and complete educational background remains limited.
She attracted additional public attention in January 2025 after Gonzalez’s unusual pre-kick routine became a widely discussed topic following a Washington Commanders playoff victory.
Rather than allowing criticism to go unanswered, Lizzy used social media to defend her husband and help explain his experience.
How Lizzy Gonzalez Supported Her Husband During the NFL Playoffs
On January 12, 2025, Zane Gonzalez kicked the game-winning field goal in the Washington Commanders’ 23-20 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The successful 37-yard kick gave Washington its first playoff victory since the 2005 season.
Before attempting the field goal, television cameras captured Gonzalez repeatedly adjusting his socks and hair.
The routine attracted considerable attention on social media.
Gonzalez later explained that the behaviors were associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder, a condition he had experienced since childhood.
His wife, Lizzy, responded publicly to people who mocked his behavior.
According to the Associated Press, she posted a TikTok video defending her husband and encouraging greater understanding of his experiences.
Gonzalez subsequently explained that Lizzy and his teammates were familiar with his routines because they had observed them throughout his career.
Her public support demonstrated the important role she played during one of the most widely discussed moments of his professional football career.
Zane Gonzalez’s Children: Meet His Son Luca
Zane Gonzalez and his wife, Lizzy, have one publicly confirmed child: a son named Luca.
The couple welcomed their first child on December 18, 2024, while Gonzalez was playing for the Washington Commanders.
The birth occurred during an important period in his career, just weeks before Washington’s appearance in the NFL playoffs.
Luca Gonzalez – Zane Gonzalez’s Son
Luca is the son of Zane Gonzalez and Lizzy Martinez.
According to Sports Illustrated, the couple welcomed their first child on December 18, 2024.
The baby’s first name was subsequently confirmed by Gonzalez himself during an appearance on the Anxiety Society podcast.
During the interview, Gonzalez discussed his experiences as a new father and referred to his son as Luca.
He also explained that becoming a parent had changed how he approached personal responsibilities, professional football and everyday routines.
Although Luca’s first name and birth date have been publicly documented, the family has generally kept further personal details private.
How Fatherhood Changed Zane Gonzalez’s Life
Becoming a father represented a major turning point for Zane Gonzalez.
During his Anxiety Society podcast interview, he explained that caring for Luca had helped him reconsider the routines he previously considered essential before football games.
Shortly after his son’s birth, Gonzalez needed to balance time at the hospital with preparation for Washington’s upcoming games.
He described traveling between family responsibilities and football activities while adapting to life with a newborn.
The experience encouraged him to become more flexible and recognize that family responsibilities were more important than maintaining every familiar routine.
He also discussed how meaningful it was to continue playing professional football after becoming a father.
One of his ambitions was to remain in the NFL long enough for Luca to grow older and remember watching him play.
As of now, Luca is the only child Gonzalez has publicly identified.
Zane Gonzalez’s Parents: Who Are His Mother and Father?
Zane Gonzalez was raised primarily by his father, Joseph Gonzalez, after his parents separated during his childhood.
His father’s identity is confirmed through Arizona State University’s official athletics reporting and interviews with established sports publications.
Although Gonzalez has discussed his mother, her full name has not been reliably established through available public records.
Joseph Gonzalez – Zane Gonzalez’s Father
Joseph Gonzalez is Zane Gonzalez’s father and one of the most influential figures in his life.
He raised Zane and his two siblings in Deer Park, Texas, following the separation of their parents.
According to an October 2016 feature published by Arizona State Athletics, Joseph experienced financial difficulties while raising the children.
At one point, he lost his job, and the family temporarily lived in their grandmother’s one-bedroom apartment.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Joseph continued working to provide food, housing and other necessities for his children.
Gonzalez described his father as an example of dedication and personal responsibility.
He also expressed admiration for the sacrifices Joseph made to keep the family together.
How Joseph Gonzalez Raised His Three Children
Joseph became the primary caregiver for Zane, Zach and Skylar after their parents separated.
In interviews published by Arizona State Athletics and the Charlotte Observer, Gonzalez described his father as fulfilling both parental roles.
Joseph prepared meals, helped organize the children’s school routines and worked long hours to support the household.
Zane recalled that his father frequently woke up early and remained busy until late in the evening.
Those experiences helped shape Gonzalez’s understanding of responsibility and commitment.
His father’s example later influenced his own ambitions for parenthood.
During his college career, Gonzalez explained that he hoped to become the kind of father who would provide the same dedication and encouragement he had received from Joseph.
Joseph Gonzalez’s Mexican Heritage
Zane Gonzalez has Mexican ancestry through his father, Joseph.
In interviews about his family background, Gonzalez explained that his paternal relatives have Mexican roots.
Joseph speaks Spanish, although Zane has acknowledged that he did not become fluent in the language while growing up.
His Mexican heritage forms an important part of his family identity.
Gonzalez has also discussed how people sometimes fail to recognize his Hispanic background because of his physical appearance.
How Zane Gonzalez Got His Name
Joseph Gonzalez was also responsible for choosing his son’s first name.
According to a San Francisco 49ers article discussing the player’s background, Joseph was inspired by the 1994 movie Maverick.
The film features a character named Zane Cooper, played by James Garner.
Joseph liked the name Zane and decided to give it to his son.
The story became public after Gonzalez entered the NFL in 2017.
Zane Gonzalez’s Mother
Zane Gonzalez’s mother is originally from Arkansas, according to published reporting about his family.
However, her full name and professional background have not been independently established.
During an October 2016 interview with Arizona State Athletics, Gonzalez explained that his mother left the family home when he was in fifth grade.
His father subsequently became the primary caregiver for Zane and his siblings.
Although Gonzalez has occasionally discussed his childhood and parents, he has not publicly provided extensive information about his mother’s later life.
Consequently, her current personal circumstances remain private.
Zane Gonzalez’s Siblings: Meet His Brother Zach and Sister Skylar
Zane Gonzalez has two publicly confirmed siblings: his older brother Zach and younger sister Skylar.
Both siblings were identified by Arizona State University in its October 2016 profile about Gonzalez’s childhood and family background.
The three children grew up together in Deer Park, Texas, primarily under their father’s care.
Zach Gonzalez – Zane Gonzalez’s Older Brother
Zach Gonzalez is Zane Gonzalez’s older brother.
According to Arizona State Athletics and reporting by the Charlotte Observer, the brothers shared an early interest in soccer.
They frequently played together while growing up in the Houston metropolitan area.
Soccer became one of their favorite childhood activities and played an important role in developing Zane’s kicking skills.
During his younger years, Zane participated in competitive soccer before eventually focusing on American football.
In a later interview, Gonzalez recalled that he and his brother enjoyed competing against each other in different sports.
That competitive family environment helped him develop the determination that would eventually become important in professional football.
However, Zach’s current occupation, educational background and personal relationships have not been extensively documented in reliable public sources.
Skylar Gonzalez – Zane Gonzalez’s Younger Sister
Skylar Gonzalez is Zane Gonzalez’s younger sister.
Her identity is confirmed by Arizona State University’s official feature about the Gonzalez family.
She grew up alongside Zane and Zach in Deer Park, Texas.
During childhood, the three siblings experienced financial challenges following their parents’ separation.
Their father worked to provide stability while raising them together.
Unlike Zane, who became a professional football player, Skylar has generally remained outside public attention.
Reliable reporting has not established her occupation, educational background or personal relationships.
As of now, her publicly confirmed biographical information is limited primarily to her relationship with Zane.
Zane Gonzalez’s Grandmother and Childhood
Another influential member of Zane Gonzalez’s family was his grandmother.
During his childhood, Gonzalez and his siblings temporarily lived in their grandmother’s one-bedroom apartment after their father experienced financial difficulties.
Although the living arrangements were challenging, the family remained together while Joseph worked to improve their circumstances.
Gonzalez later spoke about the importance of his grandmother in his life.
In an October 2016 Arizona State Athletics feature, he explained that he honored his late grandmother before field-goal attempts by making the sign of the cross.
The gesture reflected his Catholic background and served as a reminder of the family members who had supported him throughout childhood.
Her full name was not established in the university’s report.
Zane Gonzalez’s Childhood and Early Football Career
Zane Gonzalez grew up in Deer Park, Texas, near Houston.
He developed an early passion for soccer and played the sport competitively before becoming a standout American football kicker.
His father had also played soccer while growing up, helping introduce Zane and Zach to the sport.
At Deer Park High School, Gonzalez competed in soccer and football.
His kicking ability eventually attracted attention from college football recruiters.
He initially considered pursuing soccer but recognized that American football offered stronger scholarship opportunities.
Gonzalez subsequently accepted an opportunity to play for Arizona State University.
Zane Gonzalez’s College Football Career at Arizona State
Zane Gonzalez played college football at Arizona State University from 2013 to 2016.
He quickly established himself as one of the nation’s most productive placekickers.
During his freshman season, he converted 25 field goals and earned first-team All-Pac-12 recognition.
He continued improving over the following three seasons, eventually becoming one of the most accomplished kickers in college football history.
In 2016, Gonzalez won the Lou Groza Award, presented annually to the nation’s outstanding college placekicker.
He also received unanimous All-American recognition.
By the end of his college career, Gonzalez had converted 96 field goals and scored 494 points, both Football Bowl Subdivision records for a kicker at the time.
His achievements attracted attention from NFL organizations and strengthened his prospects for the professional draft.
How His Father Inspired His College Success
Family remained an important motivation throughout Gonzalez’s college football career.
In October 2016, Arizona State Athletics published a feature highlighting his relationship with his father.
Gonzalez explained that he wanted to make his family proud and eventually provide financial security for the people who had supported him.
His father had sacrificed considerable time and resources to raise the children, and Zane hoped his football achievements would help repay that dedication.
The university also documented Gonzalez’s desire to honor his late grandmother.
These family relationships became an important part of his motivation during one of the most successful college kicking careers in NCAA history.
Zane Gonzalez’s NFL Career
The Cleveland Browns selected Zane Gonzalez in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft with the 224th overall pick.
He began his professional career as Cleveland’s kicker and appeared in all 16 games during his rookie season.
After leaving Cleveland in 2018, Gonzalez joined the Arizona Cardinals.
His best season with Arizona came in 2019, when he converted 31 of 35 field-goal attempts.
He later played for the Carolina Panthers in 2021 and spent time with the San Francisco 49ers organization.
In 2024, Gonzalez joined the Washington Commanders and became an important contributor during their playoff campaign.
He subsequently played for the Atlanta Falcons during the 2025 season.
Zane Gonzalez’s Playoff Success With Washington
Gonzalez delivered one of the most memorable performances of his NFL career on January 12, 2025.
During Washington’s wild-card playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he converted three field goals, including the game-winning attempt.
His successful 37-yard kick secured a 23-20 victory and advanced the Commanders to the divisional round.
The moment became particularly meaningful because it occurred less than a month after the birth of his son, Luca.
Gonzalez later explained that becoming a father had changed his perspective on football and personal responsibilities.
His wife also celebrated the achievement publicly, expressing pride in his performance.
Zane Gonzalez Joins the Miami Dolphins
On March 12, 2026, the Miami Dolphins announced that they had signed Zane Gonzalez as an unrestricted free agent.
He joined the team to compete for its kicking position during offseason workouts and training camp.
After being released from injured reserve in August, Gonzalez returned to Miami on October 20, 2026, when the team signed him to its practice squad.
The Dolphins elevated him to the active roster for their October 25 game.
He appeared against the New York Jets and successfully converted all four extra-point attempts in Miami’s 28-25 victory.
Gonzalez returned to the practice squad on October 26.
As of now, he remains with the Miami Dolphins organization, wearing jersey number 31.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zane Gonzalez’s Family
Who is Zane Gonzalez’s wife?
Zane Gonzalez is married to Lizzy Mireya Martinez, also known as Lizzy Gonzalez. The couple married in April 2024.
Is Zane Gonzalez married?
Yes. Zane Gonzalez married Lizzy Martinez in 2024, and their marriage has been confirmed by Sports Illustrated and the Associated Press.
When did Zane Gonzalez get married?
Zane Gonzalez and Lizzy Martinez married in April 2024.
Does Zane Gonzalez have children?
Yes. Zane Gonzalez has one publicly confirmed child, a son named Luca.
Who is Zane Gonzalez’s son?
His son is Luca, who was born on December 18, 2024. Gonzalez personally confirmed his son’s first name during an Anxiety Society podcast interview.
Who is Zane Gonzalez’s father?
Zane Gonzalez’s father is Joseph Gonzalez, who raised him and his two siblings in Deer Park, Texas.
Who is Zane Gonzalez’s mother?
Zane Gonzalez’s mother is originally from Arkansas, but her full name has not been independently established through reliable public sources.
How many siblings does Zane Gonzalez have?
Zane Gonzalez has two siblings: his older brother Zach and younger sister Skylar.
Who is Zane Gonzalez’s brother?
His older brother is Zach Gonzalez, who shared Zane’s interest in soccer during childhood.
Who is Zane Gonzalez’s sister?
His younger sister is Skylar Gonzalez, who grew up alongside Zane and Zach in Deer Park, Texas.
Is Zane Gonzalez Mexican?
Zane Gonzalez is American and has Mexican ancestry through his father, Joseph Gonzalez.
What is Zane Gonzalez’s full name?
His full name is Zane Holden Fortunato Gonzalez.
When was Zane Gonzalez born?
Zane Gonzalez was born on May 7, 1995.
How old is Zane Gonzalez?
As of now, Zane Gonzalez is 31 years old.
Where did Zane Gonzalez grow up?
Zane Gonzalez grew up in Deer Park, Texas, in the Houston metropolitan area.
Where did Zane Gonzalez play college football?
He played college football at Arizona State University from 2013 to 2016, winning the Lou Groza Award and earning unanimous All-American recognition in 2016.
Which NFL team drafted Zane Gonzalez?
The Cleveland Browns selected him in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft with the 224th overall pick.
Which NFL team does Zane Gonzalez play for?
As of now, Zane Gonzalez is a kicker with the Miami Dolphins organization, having returned to the team’s practice squad in October 2026.
Valentim Tereshkova is a sports journalist and NFL analyst specializing in team dynamics, scheme breakdowns, and league-wide trends. Covering everything from offseason roster construction and Draft developments to Sunday game plans and Super Bowl contenders, he delivers clear, sharp commentary on the gridiron. Valentim combines stat-driven analysis with a passion for football storytelling to give readers an expert look into the AFC and NFC.
