For now, Greg Zuerlein holds onto the kicking job for the New York Jets, but the clock is ticking, and it seems like change is in the air. The Jets are casting a wide net as they explore their options at kicker, with a workout day at MetLife Stadium that brought in a bevy of hopefuls.
Time for a Change? Jets Explore Kicking Options
On Tuesday, the Jets evaluated a handful of kickers, including Zane Gonzalez, Brayden Narveson, Riley Patterson, Spencer Shrader, Andre Szmyt, and Cade York, according to reports. It’s a clear signal that the team is not satisfied with Zuerlein’s recent performance.
- Cade York struggled in his brief stint with Washington, missing both of his attempts in a single game and finishing his career at 24-of-34.
- Zane Gonzalez, who hasn’t seen NFL action since 2021, boasts a respectable 80.5% success rate on field goals (91-of-113).
- Brayden Narveson kicked for the Packers this season, managing just 12-of-17 field goals.
- Riley Patterson has a solid career percentage of 88.1%, going 59-of-67 over three seasons.
- Spencer Shrader impressed in his one game with the Colts, making all three extra points but did not attempt a field goal.
- Andre Szmyt is still waiting for his chance, yet to kick in a regular-season game.
Coaching Decisions Looming
Jets coach Jeff Ulbrich confirmed that the team will continue its kicker tryouts on Wednesday, and it’s anyone’s guess who will be handed the keys to the kicking game. With Zuerlein’s current stats showing a lackluster 9-of-15 on field goals and a decent 13-of-14 on extra points, the pressure is mounting. Notably, two of those misses came from less than 40 yards, and three were under 50 yards—unacceptable for a team with playoff aspirations.
The stakes are high as the Jets prepare for a pivotal matchup on Thursday Night Football. The new kicker, whoever it may be, will need to step up and deliver under the bright lights, proving that they can perform when the game is on the line. As the Jets look to solidify their roster, the kicking conundrum remains a hot topic, with fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this unfolding drama.
