New England Patriots Moving On From Veteran Kicker


The New England Patriots' decision to trade up and draft kicker Chad Ryland in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft has fueled speculation that veteran kicker Nick Folk's tenure with the team may be coming to an end.

Folk's recent struggles, including missing three extra points and five field goals in the previous season and a decline in leg strength, have made his position with the team uncertain. The Patriots traded up to select Ryland, indicating their strong interest in the rookie kicker and setting themselves up for the future of the position.

While Folk has been a reliable kicker for the Patriots in the past, his recent struggles and the arrival of Ryland make it highly likely that the team will move on from him this offseason, either via trade or release.

The 38-year-old has spent the last four seasons with the Patriots, posting an impressive 89.3 field goal percentage, with a 91.3 extra-point percentage over 57 games.

Ryland's selection suggests that the Patriots are preparing to make a change at the kicker position, and they are ready to give the rookie a chance to prove himself in the NFL. Photo Credit: Kris Craig / USA TODAY NETWORK