The New York Jets’ frustrating 2024 season hit a new low tonight, with veteran kicker Greg Zuerlein’s struggles reaching critical mass. After missing four field goals in five games, including two agonizing upright hits in tonight’s matchup, fans and experts alike are calling for his release.
Zuerlein, 36, has been a reliable kicker throughout his career, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2017 and boasting an 82.5% field goal percentage entering this season. However, his recent performances have been alarming. Tonight’s game saw him hit the left upright on a 45-yard attempt and then the right upright on a 52-yard try, leaving Jets fans stunned and frustrated.
The Jets’ faithful have had enough, taking to social media to express their discontent. “Release Zuerlein NOW!” tweeted @JetsNation. “We can’t afford to lose games due to kicker incompetence!” added @NYJ_Fan4Life. The hashtag #ZuerleinMustGo began trending on Twitter, with fans and pundits alike calling for the veteran kicker’s ouster.
Head coach Robert Saleh faces mounting pressure to address the kicking situation. “We’ll evaluate everything, including the kicker position,” Saleh said post-game. “We need to find a solution.” Saleh’s words hinted at a potential change, but the clock is ticking.
Rumors are circulating that the Jets will hold kicker tryouts as early as next week. With Zuerlein’s contract containing no guaranteed money beyond this season, the team may opt to cut ties and explore younger, more reliable options. The Jets have already worked out several kickers, including veteran Stephen Gostkowski and rookie phenom, Tyler Bass.
As the Jets seek to turn their season around, a change at kicker may be the spark needed. With talented young kickers available, it’s time for the Jets to consider moving on from Zuerlein and injecting new life into their special teams unit.
The Jets’ postseason aspirations are dwindling, and the kicking situation is a significant factor. Will the team act swiftly to address the issue, or will Zuerlein’s struggles continue to haunt them? The clock is ticking.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport weighed in on the situation: “Zuerlein’s struggles are a major concern. The Jets need a kicker who can make clutch kicks.” ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith echoed Rapoport’s sentiments: “Zuerlein’s got to go. You can’t win games with a kicker who can’t make field goals.”
POTENTIAL REPLACEMENTS
Several kickers could be on the Jets’ radar:
1. *Stephen Gostkowski*: Veteran kicker with a proven track record.
2. *Tyler Bass*: Rookie phenom with impressive leg strength.
3. *Eddy Piñeiro*: Former Chicago Bears kicker with accuracy issues but strong potential.
4. *Matt Gay*: Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers kicker with a strong leg.
The New York Jets’ kicking woes have reached a critical point. With Greg Zuerlein’s struggles showing no signs of improvement, it’s time for the team to explore alternative options. Will the Jets act swiftly to address the issue, or will Zuerlein’s struggles continue to haunt them? The answer will shape the course of their season.
