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Complete Guide To NFL Kickers Free Agents: Everything You Need To Know

Trends January 15, 2025

Who are the most sought-after free agent kickers in the NFL?

NFL kickers free agents are players who are not under contract with any team and are free to sign with any team that offers them a contract. These players are often highly sought-after by teams looking to improve their kicking game.

There are a number of factors that can affect a kicker's free agent value, including their accuracy, consistency, and range. The most accurate kickers are often the most sought-after, as they are more likely to make kicks in pressure situations. Consistency is also important, as teams want to know that they can count on their kicker to make kicks on a regular basis. Range is also a factor, as teams want to have a kicker who can make kicks from long distances.

Some of the top NFL kickers free agents in 2023 include:

Player	Age	Experience	Accuracy
Greg Zuerlein	33	11 seasons	82.1%
Jason Sanders	26	5 seasons	84.3%
Matt Prater	38	16 seasons	81.9%

These are just a few of the top NFL kickers free agents in 2023. With the NFL Draft approaching, teams will be looking to add some of these players to their rosters.

NFL Kickers Free Agents

Accuracy
Consistency
Range
Experience
Age
Injury history

These are just a few of the key aspects that teams consider when evaluating NFL kickers free agents. By considering these factors, teams can make informed decisions about which players to sign to improve their kicking game.

For example, a team that is looking for a kicker who can make long field goals may be willing to sign a player with a strong leg, even if he is not as accurate as some other kickers. Conversely, a team that is looking for a kicker who is reliable in pressure situations may be willing to sign a player with a lower range, but who is more accurate.

Ultimately, the decision of which NFL kickers free agents to sign is a complex one. By considering the key aspects discussed above, teams can make informed decisions about which players to add to their roster.

1. Accuracy

Accuracy is one of the most important aspects of being a successful NFL kicker. Kickers are responsible for scoring points and winning games, so it is essential that they are able to make kicks consistently. Accuracy is also important for kickers who are trying to earn a roster spot or a new contract. Teams are more likely to sign kickers who are accurate and reliable.

There are a number of factors that can affect a kicker's accuracy, including their technique, their mental game, and the conditions of the game. Kickers who have a good technique are more likely to make kicks consistently. They have a good understanding of how to kick the ball and how to control their body. Kickers who have a strong mental game are also more likely to be accurate. They are able to stay focused and composed under pressure.

The conditions of the game can also affect a kicker's accuracy. Wind, rain, and cold weather can all make it more difficult to make kicks. Kickers who are able to adjust to the conditions and still make kicks are more valuable to their teams.

Accuracy is a key component of being a successful NFL kicker. Kickers who are accurate are more likely to score points and win games. They are also more likely to earn a roster spot or a new contract.

2. Consistency

Consistency is another important aspect of being a successful NFL kicker. Kickers who are able to make kicks consistently are more valuable to their teams than kickers who are inconsistent. Consistent kickers can be counted on to make kicks in pressure situations, which can be the difference between winning and losing a game.

There are a number of factors that can affect a kicker's consistency, including their technique, their mental game, and the conditions of the game. Kickers who have a good technique are more likely to make kicks consistently. They have a good understanding of how to kick the ball and how to control their body. Kickers who have a strong mental game are also more likely to be consistent. They are able to stay focused and composed under pressure.

The conditions of the game can also affect a kicker's consistency. Wind, rain, and cold weather can all make it more difficult to make kicks. Kickers who are able to adjust to the conditions and still make kicks are more valuable to their teams.

Consistency is a key component of being a successful NFL kicker. Kickers who are consistent are more likely to score points and win games. They are also more likely to earn a roster spot or a new contract.

3. Range

Range is an important aspect of being a successful NFL kicker. Kickers who have a long range are able to score points from further out, which can be a major advantage in close games. Range is also important for kickers who are trying to earn a roster spot or a new contract. Teams are more likely to sign kickers who have a long range, as they can be used in a variety of situations.

Distance
The distance that a kicker can kick the ball is the most important aspect of range. Kickers who can kick the ball a long distance are more valuable to their teams, as they can score points from further out. The average NFL kicker can kick the ball around 50 yards, but some kickers can kick the ball over 60 yards.
Accuracy
Accuracy is also important for kickers who want to have a long range. Kickers who are accurate are more likely to make kicks from long distances. This is because they are able to control the ball better and put it in the right spot. Kickers who are inaccurate are more likely to miss kicks from long distances, which can cost their team points.
Conditions
The conditions of the game can also affect a kicker's range. Wind, rain, and cold weather can all make it more difficult to kick the ball a long distance. Kickers who are able to adjust to the conditions and still make kicks from long distances are more valuable to their teams.
Experience
Experience is also important for kickers who want to have a long range. Kickers who have more experience are more likely to be able to kick the ball a long distance. This is because they have had more time to develop their technique and learn how to control the ball.

Range is a key component of being a successful NFL kicker. Kickers who have a long range are more likely to score points and win games. They are also more likely to earn a roster spot or a new contract.

4. Experience

Experience is an important factor for NFL kickers free agents. Kickers with more experience are more likely to be accurate and consistent, and they are also more likely to have a long range. This is because experienced kickers have had more time to develop their technique and learn how to control the ball. They have also had more experience kicking in different conditions and under pressure.

For example, Justin Tucker is one of the most experienced kickers in the NFL. He has been kicking for the Baltimore Ravens since 2012, and he has made over 90% of his field goal attempts. Tucker is also one of the most accurate kickers in the NFL, and he has a long range of over 60 yards. His experience has helped him to become one of the best kickers in the league.

Experience is a valuable asset for NFL kickers free agents. Kickers with more experience are more likely to be successful in the NFL. They are more likely to make kicks in pressure situations, and they are more likely to be able to kick the ball a long distance. Teams are more likely to sign kickers with experience, as they know that they can count on them to be reliable and consistent.

5. Age

Age is a significant factor for NFL kickers free agents. Kickers tend to reach their peak performance in their late 20s and early 30s. This is because they have had enough time to develop their skills and experience, but they are still young enough to have the physical strength and stamina to perform at a high level.

Experience
Older kickers typically have more experience than younger kickers. This experience can be a major advantage, as it allows them to perform better under pressure and make better decisions on the field. Experienced kickers are also more likely to be able to adjust to different conditions and make kicks from long distances.
Physical decline
As kickers get older, they may start to experience a decline in their physical abilities. This decline can affect their strength, stamina, and accuracy. Older kickers may also be more susceptible to injuries.
Competition
Younger kickers are often more athletic and have stronger legs than older kickers. This can give them an advantage in competitions for roster spots and starting jobs.
Salary
Older kickers may be more expensive to sign than younger kickers. This is because they have more experience and are often more reliable. However, teams may be willing to pay more for an experienced kicker who can help them win games.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to sign an older or younger kicker is a complex one. Teams must consider a number of factors, including the kicker's experience, physical abilities, competition, and salary. By considering all of these factors, teams can make informed decisions about which kickers to add to their roster.

6. Injury history

Injury history is an important factor for NFL kickers free agents. Kickers who have a history of injuries may be more likely to re-injure themselves, which could affect their performance and availability. Teams are less likely to sign kickers with a history of injuries, as they are seen as a higher risk.

Missed games
Kickers who have missed games due to injury are more likely to be seen as a risk by teams. This is because they have a history of being unable to stay healthy and on the field. Teams are more likely to sign kickers who have a clean injury history.
Severity of injuries
The severity of a kicker's injuries is also important. Kickers who have suffered serious injuries, such as torn ligaments or broken bones, are more likely to be seen as a risk by teams. This is because they may be more likely to re-injure themselves or have their performance affected by their injuries.
Age
Older kickers are more likely to have a history of injuries. This is because they have been playing the game for longer and have had more time to accumulate injuries. Teams are more likely to sign younger kickers who have a clean injury history.
Position
Kickers are one of the most injury-prone positions in the NFL. This is because they are often the target of opposing players and are often involved in collisions. Teams are aware of this and are more likely to sign kickers who have a clean injury history.

Overall, injury history is an important factor for NFL kickers free agents. Kickers with a history of injuries are more likely to be seen as a risk by teams and are less likely to be signed. Teams are more likely to sign kickers who have a clean injury history and who are less likely to re-injure themselves.

NFL Kickers Free Agents FAQs

This section addresses frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding NFL kickers free agents. It provides clear and informative answers to common concerns and misconceptions.

Question 1: What factors do teams consider when evaluating NFL kickers free agents?

Answer: Teams evaluate kickers based on several factors, including accuracy, consistency, range, experience, age, and injury history. Accuracy and consistency are crucial for scoring points and winning games. Range is important for field goals from various distances. Experience provides stability and reliability, while age and injury history can influence performance and availability.

Question 2: How does accuracy impact a kicker's value?

Answer: Accuracy is paramount for kickers. Teams prioritize kickers who can consistently make kicks, especially in crucial situations. Accurate kickers increase the likelihood of scoring points and securing victories.

Question 3: Why is consistency important for kickers?

Answer: Consistency enables teams to rely on kickers to perform at a high level game after game. Consistent kickers provide stability and reduce uncertainty, allowing teams to strategize more effectively.

Question 4: How does range affect a kicker's desirability?

Answer: Kickers with a wider range can score points from greater distances, giving teams an advantage. They can attempt field goals from farther out, increasing the likelihood of scoring and potentially winning games.

Question 5: What are the advantages of signing an experienced kicker?

Answer: Experienced kickers bring stability, composure, and a wealth of knowledge to the team. They have often mastered their technique, developed strong mental resilience, and can perform under pressure. Their experience can be invaluable in critical moments.

Summary: Evaluating NFL kickers free agents involves considering multiple factors. Teams prioritize accuracy, consistency, range, experience, and injury history to identify kickers who can contribute to their success on the field.

Next Article Section: Transition to the next section of the article, which may delve into specific player profiles, contract negotiations, or the overall impact of kickers on NFL teams.

NFL Kickers Free Agents

In the NFL, kickers play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of games. Their accuracy, consistency, and range can significantly impact a team's success. NFL kickers free agents represent a valuable pool of talent that teams can tap into to improve their kicking game.

When evaluating kickers, teams consider several key factors, including accuracy, consistency, range, experience, age, and injury history. Teams prioritize kickers who can consistently make kicks, especially in crucial situations. Range is important for field goals from various distances. Experience provides stability and reliability, while age and injury history can influence performance and availability.

The acquisition of a skilled kicker can be a game-changer for teams. Kickers can win games with last-second field goals, provide stability in extra-point attempts, and influence field position with booming kickoffs. Teams that invest in talented kickers gain a competitive edge and increase their chances of success.

As the NFL landscape continues to evolve, the importance of kickers will only grow. Teams that recognize the value of skilled kickers and make strategic acquisitions in the free agent market will be well-positioned to compete at the highest level.