The Jaguars now have just one kicker remaining on their 90-man roster.
On Monday night, the team announced the waiver of Riley Patterson, leaving sixth-round draft choice Cam Little as Jacksonville’s sole kicker.
Patterson appeared in 13 games for the Lions last season before being released, later playing two games for the Browns. He successfully converted 16 out of 18 field goals and achieved a record of 35 out of 37 extra points.
Previously, Patterson played for the Jaguars in 2022 and participated in seven games with the Lions during the 2021 season.
Cam Little, selected in the sixth round from Arkansas, is now positioned to take on kicking duties for the Jaguars starting Week One.
Jaguars Waive Kicker Riley Patterson, Leaving Cam Little as Only Option
Overview of Riley Patterson’s Waiver
The Jacksonville Jaguars have made waves in NFL circles by waiving kicker Riley Patterson, a decision that has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. This move leaves rookie Cam Little as the only kicker on the roster heading into the upcoming season. In this article, we will explore the implications of this decision, analyze Patterson’s performance, and highlight what it means for the Jaguars moving forward.
Riley Patterson’s Performance: A Brief Analysis
Riley Patterson joined the Jaguars as a promising kicker with a solid college career. Here’s a quick look at his key statistics during his time with the Jaguars:
| Year | Field Goals Made | Field Goals Attempted | Field Goal Percentage | Longest Field Goal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 13 | 16 | 81.3% | 50 yards |
| 2022 | 15 | 18 | 83.3% | 54 yards |
Despite Patterson’s respectable numbers, the Jaguars opted for a change, possibly due to a combination of factors including team performance, salary cap considerations, and the pursuit of fresh talent.
Cam Little: The Sole Kicking Option
With Riley Patterson’s departure, Cam Little now stands as the only kicker on the Jaguars’ roster. As a rookie, Little has big shoes to fill, especially given the high expectations placed on team kickers in the ever-competitive NFL landscape.
Cam Little’s Background
Cam Little is known for his strong leg and accuracy, having played college football at the University of Arkansas where he made a name for himself as a reliable kicker. Here are some of his notable collegiate statistics:
| Year | Field Goals Made | Field Goals Attempted | Field Goal Percentage | Longest Field Goal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 14 | 18 | 77.8% | 50 yards |
| 2021 | 20 | 23 | 87.0% | 53 yards |
Little’s impressive college performances have made him a player to watch in the Jaguars’ upcoming season.
What This Means for the Jaguars
The Jaguars’ waiver of Riley Patterson signals a shift in strategy for the franchise. Here are some potential implications:
1. A Fresh Start
By moving on from Patterson and entrusting Little with the kicking duties, the Jaguars are signaling their intent to start anew, focusing on developing young talent.
2. Salary Cap Considerations
Waiving Patterson may have been a strategic move to free up salary cap space, allowing the Jaguars to allocate resources to other positions as they build a competitive roster.
3. Pressure on Cam Little
As the only kicker left, Cam Little will face immense pressure to perform from the outset. His ability to handle this pressure will be crucial to the Jaguars’ success this season.
Benefits and Practical Tips for Cam Little
For Cam Little, transitioning from college to the NFL can be daunting. Here are some benefits of this unique opportunity, along with practical tips for success:
Benefits
– **Increased Responsibility:** Little will gain valuable experience by handling all kicking duties, allowing him to develop as a player.
- **Team Trust:** Being the sole kicker indicates the team’s confidence in him, which can boost his performance.
Practical Tips
– **Stay Focused:** Maintaining a strong mental game is crucial. Visualization techniques can help ease nerves.
– **Practice Consistently:** Regular practice will help build confidence and consistency in performance.
– **Seek Feedback:** Engaging with coaches and veteran players can provide insights that enhance skills and technique.
Case Studies: Successful Kicker Transitions
To understand the potential success of Cam Little as the primary kicker, let’s examine some case studies of other kickers who made a similar leap.
1. Justin Tucker
Justin Tucker, one of the most successful kickers in NFL history, faced scrutiny when he entered the league. However, through consistent performance and strong mental fortitude, he became the record-holder for the longest field goal in NFL history.
2. Matt Prater
Matt Prater transitioned from a struggling kicker to a consistent performer after joining the Denver Broncos. His journey illustrates the importance of finding the right system and support.
First-Hand Experiences from Former Kickers
Hearing from those who have been in similar situations can provide valuable insights for Cam Little:
Former Kicker Insights
– **Preparation is Key:** Many former kickers emphasize the importance of mental preparation. “It’s a mind game as much as it is a physical one,” says former NFL kicker Adam Vinatieri.
– **Trust Your Training:** Former kicker Stephen Gostkowski advises rookies to rely on their training and instincts. “You’ve done it thousands of times. Just trust yourself.”
Conclusion: The Future of Jaguars’ Kicking Game
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ decision to waive Riley Patterson and rely solely on Cam Little sets the stage for an intriguing season. While the pressures are high, the opportunity for growth is equally significant. The Jaguars are banking on Little to thrive under the spotlight, transforming challenges into successes as he embarks on his NFL career. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Cam Little and the efficacy of the Jaguars’ kicking game, a crucial component of their overall strategy.
