Jets Continue Kicker Carousel with Workouts for Tucker and Others
The Jets' kicking search has become a revolving door, with five kickers tried in four months and the latest move bringing Blake Grupe onto the active roster while Jason Sanders went to the practice squad. New York is still exploring options, working out veterans Justin Tucker, Michael Badgley, and Josh Karty on Wednesday. Tucker, 36, is coming off a career-worst field goal percentage and faces off-field allegations, making his signing uncertain.
The Jets have cycled through five kickers in roughly four months, with the latest roster move promoting Blake Grupe from the waiver wire while Jason Sanders dropped to the practice squad. Wednesday's workouts added three more names to the audition list: Justin Tucker, Michael Badgley, and Josh Karty, each bringing different concerns to the table.
Tucker, despite ranking third all-time in accuracy, posted a career-low 73.3% conversion rate last season at age 36, compounded by unresolved off-field allegations. Badgley's 91% success rate masks weakness beyond 50 yards, while Karty sits under 80% across two seasons. The team has now evaluated nine kickers since declining to re-sign Nick Folk.
This prolonged kicking search could affect more than just Jets game outcomes, as fans may lose confidence in the front office's decision-making process. Teams across the league may watch how New York handles Tucker's situation, potentially influencing how other organizations weigh performance decline against off-field baggage. The revolving door could also impact player morale and locker room stability, though the full consequences may only become clear once the regular season begins.