Who Should I Start? Jake Elliott or Jake Bates

Thursday, March 19, 6:39 AM

The Philadelphia Eagles reworked kicker Jake Elliott's contract for the 2026 season, according to OverTheCap. Elliott accepted a $1 million pay decrease from $6 million to $5 million, but the Eagles guaranteed the $5 million, which is a clear sign that Elliott will remain their kicker this year after a disappointing 2025, according to Dave Zangaro of NBC Sports. Elliott's previous salary cap hit was due to be $4.893 million, and his new cap hit will be $4.65 million. If Elliott were cut after June 1, there would be no further cap savings. He remains under contract through the 2028 season. The 31-year-old veteran made just 20 of 27 field goals last year and was 4-for-8 from 50-plus yards out. In the last two seasons, Elliott is 5-for-15 from 50-plus yards, giving him the worst percentage in the NFL among 35 kickers with at least five attempts. If Elliott continues to struggle, especially from long range, the Eagles could have a shorter leash with him in 2026, making him a more volatile kicking option in 12-team fantasy football leagues.