Are Andy Borregales' Performance Ups and Downs a Cause for Concern for the Patriots?

This article delves into the ongoing conversation surrounding the necessity of drafting kickers in the National Football League (NFL), particularly in light of the New England Patriots' recent experiences with rookie kicker Andy Borregales. While the Baltimore Ravens have famously succeeded without ever drafting a kicker, the current state of the Patriots raises questions about the effectiveness and reliability of drafted kickers in today’s game.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Baltimore Ravens have never drafted a kicker in their 29-year history.
• Only 11 out of 32 current NFL kickers were drafted.
• Andy Borregales, the Patriots' rookie kicker, has had a rocky start.
• Despite struggles, coach Mike Vrabel maintains confidence in Borregales.
• The Patriots' win against the Dolphins came amid a series of missed opportunities.

The Case Against Drafting Kickers

The notion of drafting kickers has been a contentious topic among NFL teams. Historically, some franchises have thrived without investing draft capital in this position. The Ravens, for example, have a storied history of success without ever selecting a kicker. In their first 29 years, the team has secured multiple Super Bowl victories and postseason appearances while employing legendary kickers like Matt Stover and Justin Tucker.

As of today, the statistics reveal that only 11 of the 32 NFL kickers were drafted. This list includes well-known names such as Matt Prater, Graham Gano, and Chris Boswell, all of whom entered the league as undrafted free agents. This raises the question: is it truly necessary to use a draft pick on a kicker when many have proven capable of performing at a high level without the accolades of being drafted?

The Patriots and Their Rookie Kicker

The New England Patriots, a franchise with a rich history of success, found themselves in a peculiar situation this season with rookie kicker Andy Borregales. Drafted in the fifth round, expectations were high for Borregales to step in and deliver consistent performance. However, his early outings have been anything but remarkable.

In his debut against the Miami Dolphins, Borregales missed a crucial extra point attempt and clanked a field goal off the upright. These missed opportunities can weigh heavily on a young kicker, especially in high-pressure situations. His Week 1 performance included a mixed bag of kicks—missing a 40-yarder but successfully converting from 35 and 44 yards, alongside a PAT. Such inconsistency raises concerns for a team that is not currently in Super Bowl contention.

The Pressure of NFL Kicking

Despite Borregales’ rocky start, head coach Mike Vrabel expressed unwavering confidence in his abilities. "I didn't waver," Vrabel stated, highlighting the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Such support is crucial for a young player still finding his footing in the league. However, the pressure of being a drafted kicker can lead to heightened expectations that may not reflect the player's actual performance.

In his second game, Borregales managed to redeem himself with a successful 53-yard field goal, showcasing his potential. However, he followed this with a mistake on the subsequent kickoff, failing to reach the end zone, which could have cost the Patriots dearly. The defence held strong, but these ups and downs are emblematic of the challenges rookie kickers face.

The Broader Implications for the Patriots

As the Patriots navigate their season, Borregales’ inconsistency reflects broader issues within the team. With a new quarterback in Drake Maye, who performed admirably despite the pressure, and a running game that showed flashes of brilliance, the focus on Borregales may detract from the overall progress of the team. Maye's performance (19-for-23, 230 yards, and 2 touchdowns) demonstrated his capabilities, yet the attention remains on the kicker.

Meanwhile, the defence, which has struggled with explosive plays, needs to address its issues to support the young offence. The Patriots’ victory over the Dolphins, although hard-fought, exposed several weaknesses that cannot be overlooked. The missed PATs, penalties, and defensive lapses illustrate that even in a win, there are areas for improvement.

Lessons from the Dolphins Game

In their 33-27 victory against the Dolphins, the Patriots displayed a mix of competence and chaos. While the win is significant, especially given the historical difficulties the team has faced in Miami, it came with its fair share of blunders. The defence allowed a 74-yard punt return for a touchdown and could not consistently contain explosive plays. Such inconsistencies highlight that the team cannot solely rely on Borregales or any single player for success.

This win is a reminder that while victories are crucial, the manner in which they are achieved matters just as much. The Patriots must address their shortcomings if they hope to compete effectively in the upcoming weeks.

Conclusion: The Future of Kicking in the NFL

The ongoing debate surrounding the necessity of drafting kickers continues to evolve. The experiences of teams like the Ravens, alongside the struggles of the Patriots, suggest that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. As franchises adapt to the changing dynamics of the game, the emphasis on finding reliable kickers—whether drafted or undrafted—remains paramount.

With Borregales at the helm, the Patriots face an uncertain future regarding their kicking game. However, the talent on the roster, alongside the guidance of a supportive coaching staff, provides hope for improvement. The question remains: how will the kicking position evolve in the coming years, and will teams continue to invest valuable draft picks on kickers?

The NFL landscape is ever-changing, and as teams assess their needs, the role of kickers will undoubtedly remain a point of contention and strategy moving forward. #NFL #Patriots #KickingGame

FAQs

Why do some NFL teams choose not to draft kickers?

Some teams believe they can find effective kickers as undrafted free agents, as history shows many successful kickers entered the league without being drafted.

What has been Andy Borregales' performance so far?

Andy Borregales has had a mixed performance, going 4-for-5 on field goals and 2-for-4 on extra points, indicating inconsistency in his early career.

How important is a kicker to an NFL team's success?

A reliable kicker can be crucial for a team, especially in close games, but teams also need a well-rounded roster to succeed overall.

What are the potential consequences of missing kicks in critical moments?

Missing crucial kicks can shift momentum in a game, impact team morale, and increase pressure on other players, especially during tight contests.

What role does coaching play in a kicker's performance?

Coaching is vital in developing a kicker's confidence and technique, particularly for rookies. Supportive coaching can help kickers overcome early struggles.