New York Jets Secure Greg Zuerlein as Kicker for 2023 Season
The New York Jets have had their fair share of struggles when it comes to finding a reliable kicker. In fact, between 2019 and 2021 alone, they went through seven different kickers, making it clear that stability in this position was desperately needed. However, in 2022, they were able to address this issue by bringing in Greg Zuerlein, the former kicker for the Los Angeles Rams and the Dallas Cowboys. And now, it seems that the Jets are confident in Zuerlein’s abilities, as they have signed him for the 2023 season on a one-year contract worth $2.6 million.
It’s worth noting that Zuerlein’s contract isn’t considered extravagant for a kicker. In fact, it falls within the middle range among kickers in the league. This aligns with his performance as well, with Pro Football Focus ranking him as the 16th best kicker in the league for field goals and the third best for kickoffs. While Zuerlein may not be among the elite kickers in the league, he certainly provides the Jets with a consistent and reliable option.
But why settle for a middle-tier kicker when they could potentially invest in a top-tier one? According to data analyzed by Daniel Houston of Cowboys Stats and Graphics, the difference between a top five kicker and a decent, NFL-quality kicker is only 0.3 wins over the course of a 17-game season. This means that the impact of having a top-tier kicker versus a serviceable veteran is minimal. Therefore, the decision to sign Zuerlein, a reliable veteran, seems to be a prudent one.
By opting for a more affordable kicker, the Jets can allocate their resources to other positions that may have a more significant impact on the outcome of their games. In a championship window, it is essential to have a balanced team, and spending a significant amount of cap space on a high-profile kicker may not be the wisest use of resources.
As the Jets aim to put an end to their playoff and Super Bowl drought, having a dependable kicker like Zuerlein can play a crucial role. While he may not be the flashiest or highest-paid kicker in the league, his consistency and reliability make him the perfect fit for the Jets’ 2023 season. With Zuerlein on board, the Jets can focus on strengthening other areas of their team to maximize their chances of success.
In conclusion, the New York Jets have made a wise decision by securing Greg Zuerlein as their kicker for the 2023 season. Despite not being among the top-tier kickers in the league, Zuerlein’s reliability and cost-effectiveness make him the ideal choice for a team that is looking to make a playoff push. With this move, the Jets can allocate their resources strategically and build a well-rounded team that can compete at the highest level.
