Falcons Put Trust in Parker Romo as Kicking Pressure Intensifies
The Atlanta Falcons are standing firm with kicker Parker Romo despite a challenging outing last week. The team’s decision comes after they released veteran kicker Younghoe Koo, who had been a reliable presence since joining the Falcons in 2019. Koo, however, faced difficulties last season, converting only 73.5% of his attempts while also battling injuries.
Romo’s Rise and Fall
After Koo’s missed game-tying field goal in the season opener, the Falcons turned to Romo, signing him to their practice squad as competition. In a decisive move, Romo was elevated to the active roster just a day before the Falcons’ Week 2 face-off against the Minnesota Vikings. He seized the opportunity, converting all five of his kicks, including a remarkable 54-yarder, leading Atlanta to a convincing 22-6 victory on Sunday Night Football.
However, Romo’s success was fleeting. In his second start, he faced a disheartening performance against the Carolina Panthers, managing only two successful field goals and failing to convert both attempts, contributing to a sobering 30-0 defeat.
New Competition on the Horizon
In response to this setback, the Falcons signed rookie kicker Ben Sauls to their practice squad, indicating that Romo’s position was once again under scrutiny. Yet, head coach Raheem Morris announced that Romo would remain the starter for the upcoming game, a decision that speaks to the team’s confidence in his abilities despite recent struggles.
Romo’s track record in the NFL shows promise; he has successfully made 16 of 17 field goals attempted and converted eight of nine extra points. His initial standout performance, executed with barely any preparation time, highlights the potential the Falcons see in him.
Under Pressure
The pressure is mounting for Romo. With the stakes higher than ever, one more misstep could lead to a swift exit. Romo himself has expressed a preference for high-pressure situations, stating upon his signing with the team, “I’ve just kind of gotten used to being uncomfortable.”
As the Falcons prepare for their next challenge, they will need to bounce back from the embarrassment of last week’s loss and remain competitive in the NFC South playoff race. Achieving this goal requires excellence across all facets of the game—offense, defense, and special teams. Romo’s role on special teams will be crucial as the team aims to regain its footing.
With the spotlight firmly on him, Parker Romo has the chance to prove himself once again. The Falcons’ faith in him reflects not just their belief in his past performance but also their hope for a brighter future as they navigate the challenges of the season.
