Falcons Address Kicking Woes Following Younghoe Koo’s Miss
The Atlanta Falcons are taking a closer look at their kicking situation after a critical miss by Younghoe Koo during their recent game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Head coach Raheem Morris announced that the team will be holding workouts for other kickers on Tuesday, signaling a potential shift in their kicking strategy.
Koo’s Miss and Its Implications
Koo’s final attempt on Sunday not only failed to convert but also denied the Falcons a chance to tie the game. This miss, however, was not an isolated incident. Earlier in the game, Koo had another close call when an attempt ricocheted off the upright but ultimately went through. “We’ve got to bring in a competitive edge,” Morris stated, emphasizing the need for evaluation and competition among kickers.
Despite affirming Koo’s position as the starting kicker for now, Morris acknowledged the necessity of exploring options. “Tomorrow’s gonna be a workout. We’ll work out some veterans, we’ll work out a couple of young guys, up-and-comers,” he said. This approach reflects the team’s commitment to maintaining a highly competitive atmosphere as they navigate the season.
Trends in Koo’s Performance
Koo’s recent struggles have raised eyebrows. Since the beginning of the 2023 season, he has converted only 70% of his kicks from 40-49 yards, a stark contrast to his performance in the previous season where he made just 57.1% of such attempts (8-of-14). Overall, his conversion rate has dropped to 79.7% in this season, prompting the Falcons to reconsider their options.
During the offseason, the team brought in Lenny Krieg for competition, but Koo ultimately retained his role. When asked about Krieg, Morris described him as a “young, up-and-comer,” but indicated that the team would look both internally and externally to find a suitable kicker. “We will definitely look outside and inside the building for a kicker,” he remarked, suggesting that no option will be overlooked.
Koo’s Reflections on Recent Performances
Following the game, Koo expressed his frustration regarding his performance. “Every point really matters in this league, and we’ve been in this situation so many times,” he said. The emotional weight of the moment was evident as he acknowledged the disappointment not just in himself but also in letting his teammates down. “I know I’m better than that,” Koo added, highlighting the internal pressure he feels to deliver in high-stakes situations.
As the Falcons approach their off day on Tuesday, the anticipation builds for the upcoming kicker workouts. With a competitive roster and the stakes high, the search for a reliable leg could significantly impact the team’s trajectory this season. As developments unfold, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Falcons address their kicking conundrum.
