Andre Szmyt Silences Doubters with Impressive Kicking Streak
After a rocky start in Week 1 of the NFL season, Andre Szmyt found himself at the center of criticism from Browns fans. His missed 36-yard field goal proved pivotal in a narrow 17-16 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Adding to the pressure, Szmyt also failed to convert an extra point, a critical miss that could have kept the game tied. Many fans were quick to call for his replacement after just one game—his very first in the NFL.
Turning the Tide with Consistency
Since that shaky debut, Szmyt has turned his fortunes around, establishing himself as a reliable asset for the Browns. He has been nothing short of exceptional, hitting a perfect 22 of 22 extra points since that initial misstep, marking an impressive 100% success rate. His field goal accuracy has also soared, with a remarkable 21 out of 23 attempts converting to points, giving him a field goal percentage of 91.3%.
Notably, Szmyt has excelled from distance, successfully making five of six attempts from 50 yards or more, including a dramatic 55-yard game-winning field goal against the Green Bay Packers in Week 3. His reliability extends to shorter distances as well, where he has gone a perfect 13 for 13 on field goals from 39 yards and in.
Crucial Contributions in Key Moments
Szmyt’s contributions were instrumental in the Browns’ recent victory, where he accounted for seven of the team’s 13 points. His scoring prowess outpaced the Pittsburgh Steelers’ entire team, who managed only six points. Szmyt opened the scoring for Cleveland with a 50-yard field goal, setting the tone for the game.
Following the win, Szmyt spoke with News 5 Cleveland reporter Camryn Justice about his development since that first game. “It feels good getting the win, first of all, but it feels good doing it with the guys, Rex (Sunahara), Corey (Bojorquez). It’s an amazing feeling to get a win,” he reflected. “I think we’ve come such a long way, just like developing-wise, and I have such a great group around me. Bubba (Ventrone), head coach Kevin, and Rex, Corey, and everybody’s been supportive and has been there for me.”
Support from Teammates and Coaches
Szmyt’s turnaround has not gone unnoticed by his teammates. Shedeur Sanders acknowledged their conversations during his struggles, noting, “Since then it’s been nothing but up.” Defensive tackle Shelby Harris also commended Szmyt’s progress, stating, “He struggled the first game, but he’s really changed a lot of stuff after that. You had people calling for his job after the first game, and look at the season he’s had. He’s put it together; he’s shown he’s one of the better kickers in this league.”
As Szmyt continues to demonstrate his abilities on the field, he aims not only to silence critics but also to solidify his role as a cornerstone player for the Browns. With the potential for a franchise-altering offseason ahead, his journey from a shaky debut to a standout performer exemplifies resilience and growth in the high-pressure world of professional football.
