The New England Patriots, an organization known for setting high standards, have made a significant change in their special teams lineup. After selecting Chad Ryland as their kicker of the future in the NFL Draft, the team has decided to cut ties with him after just one challenging season.
Ryland's Struggles in Rookie Season
Ryland's rookie campaign did not meet expectations. Although he led the Patriots in scoring with a total of 72 points, his performance in critical field goal situations was subpar. Hitting only 64% of his field goals, Ryland managed to convert just 16 out of 25 attempts. This percentage placed him at the bottom of the NFL rankings for field goal accuracy.
The long-range kicks posed an even greater challenge for Ryland. He converted just 45.5% of his attempts from beyond 45 yards, with only 5 successful kicks out of 11 attempts. These statistics underscored the inconsistency that ultimately led to the team's decision to part ways with him.
Joey Slye's Arrival and Impact
In response to Ryland's struggles, the Patriots brought in veteran kicker Joey Slye during training camp. With six years of NFL experience under his belt, Slye showcased a level of consistency that Ryland could not match during their time in camp. Slye outkicked Ryland by hitting nearly 80% of his attempts, compared to Ryland's 75.9% success rate.
Slye’s performance in training camp was particularly impressive from long distances. He converted eight of nine kicks between 50 and 59 yards, a stark contrast to Ryland’s three out of seven. This level of reliability from long range provided the Patriots with the confidence they needed to make the switch.
A Veteran with a Varied Career
Slye’s journey through the NFL has been marked by frequent changes. He began his career with the Carolina Panthers, where he spent his first two seasons. In 2021, he experienced a whirlwind year, playing for three different teams: the Houston Texans, San Francisco 49ers, and Washington Commanders. His tenure in Washington extended for two-and-a-half seasons before the Commanders allowed him to leave in free agency.
Joining the Patriots marks Slye's sixth team in his six-year career. Despite the numerous transitions, his experience and ability to perform under pressure have made him a valuable asset in the eyes of the Patriots' coaching staff.
Belichick’s Final Drafted Kicker
Ryland holds a unique place in Patriots lore as the final kicker drafted by the legendary Bill Belichick. Unfortunately, his brief tenure with the team did not pan out as hoped. The decision to move on from Ryland reflects the Patriots' commitment to performance and the ever-competitive nature of the NFL.
Eyes on the Upcoming Season
As the NFL season rapidly approaches, the focus will be on whether Slye can translate his training camp success into consistent performance during the regular season. The Patriots' special teams unit will be under scrutiny, as Slye's ability to deliver in crucial moments could play a pivotal role in the team’s overall success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Slye can provide the stability that the Patriots have been seeking in their kicking game.
In summary, the Patriots' decision to replace Ryland with Slye is a calculated move intended to bolster their special teams unit. With Slye's proven track record and exceptional performance in camp, the team is poised to improve its kicking game, a critical component in the quest for NFL success.