Carolina Panthers kicker Ryan Fitzgerald has won the kicking job after the team released Matthew Wright, according to Joe Person of The Athletic. The undrafted rookie out of Florida State went 3-for-3 on field goals and also converted his lone extra point attempt through three preseason games. He enjoyed similar success at school, going 13-for-13 on field goals during his final collegiate campaign in 2024. Although the Panthers' offense is trending up, Fitzgerald lacks fantasy appeal at the moment, especially as a rookie with no track record kicking at the professional level.
Aug 26, 2025 12:17 AM EST
The Carolina Panthers' kicking competition is on between veteran Matthew Wright and rookie Ryan Fitzgerald, and Joe Person of The Athletic believes the youngster has the leg up so far this offseason. Fitzgerald went unselected in the 2025 NFL Draft and was picked up by Carolina shortly after. Over his final two seasons at Florida State, he connected on 32 of his 34 field goal attempts and all 72 extra point tries. He did not miss any of his 18 total kicks a season ago. In his first NFL offseason, he continues to find success. "[Dave] Canales said it's too soon to name a leader in the kicking competition, but Fitzgerald appears to have the edge on veteran Matthew Wright, based on how each looked during the practices open to the media," Person wrote. "After a tough first week in rainy and windy conditions, Fitzgerald was 9-for-10 on field goals on the skinny goal posts over the next two practices with reporters present." If Carolina's offense takes a big step forward under third-year quarterback Bryce Young, the team's starting kicker could have solid fantasy football value.
Jun 17, 2025 2:34 PM EST
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