When Chad Ryland was selected by the New England Patriots in the NFL Draft, the organization saw him stepping into the crucial role of kicker and envisioned him as a dependable asset for years to come. However, this vision did not materialize as hoped, as the Patriots decided to cut ties with Ryland after just one year with the team.
Ryland's Rookie Performance
During his rookie season, Ryland led the Patriots in scoring, amassing a total of 72 points. Despite this achievement, Ryland struggled with consistency, converting only 64% of his field goals by hitting 16 out of 25 attempts. This placed him last in the NFL in terms of field goal percentage.
Ryland's performance was particularly troubling from long distances. He managed to make just 45.5% of his kicks from beyond 45 yards, successfully converting 5 of 11 attempts. These statistics painted a challenging picture for Ryland, who faced increasing pressure to maintain his position on the team.
Training Camp Showdown
Recognizing the need for improved performance, the Patriots brought in veteran kicker Joey Slye during training camp. Slye, with six years of NFL experience, came in as a seasoned competitor ready to prove his worth. During the camp, Slye outkicked Ryland, hitting nearly 80% of his kicks compared to just 75.9% for Ryland.
Slye's performance was particularly impressive from long distances. He converted eight of nine kicks between 50 and 59 yards, whereas Ryland could only manage three of seven from the same distance. This significant discrepancy showcased Slye’s clear advantage in terms of accuracy and consistency.
Slye’s NFL Journey
Joey Slye's career in the NFL has been a journey across multiple teams. He spent his first two years with the Carolina Panthers before embarking on a whirlwind season in 2021, playing for the Houston Texans, San Francisco 49ers, and Washington Commanders. Slye's tenure in Washington spanned two-and-a-half seasons before the Commanders decided to let him walk in free agency. The Patriots now mark the sixth team that Slye has joined in his six-year NFL career.
Despite the extensive travel and numerous team changes, Slye’s experience and skill set have proven to be valuable assets. His ability to perform consistently under pressure was evident throughout the training camp, giving the Patriots confidence in his abilities.
Future Outlook
With the NFL season fast approaching, all eyes will be on the Patriots' special teams to see if Slye can carry his training camp momentum into the regular season. The decision to release Ryland signifies the team's commitment to bolstering this crucial position with a more reliable kicker.
As for Ryland, his journey in the NFL is far from over. Being the final kicker drafted by Bill Belichick, he has already shown resilience and the ability to score under pressure, leading the Patriots in points as a rookie. This experience will serve him well as he seeks new opportunities to prove his worth in the league.
In conclusion, the Patriots' decision to part ways with Chad Ryland after only one season highlights the often unforgiving nature of the NFL. Performance is paramount, and Joey Slye's demonstrated ability to deliver consistency and accuracy has earned him the position. Ryland's efforts, although falling short, have laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in professional football. As the new season dawns, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Slye capitalizes on this opportunity and if he can fortify the Patriots' special teams as they navigate the challenges ahead.