Jake Elliott’s Struggles Put Eagles in Tough Spot: Could Philly Be Eyeing a Kicking Change?
Jake Elliott’s 2025 season started like a highlight reel-six for six on field goals, including a perfect three-for-three from 50+ yards. But since then, the script has flipped, and not in a good way.
Over the last five games, Elliott has gone just six for 11, with a missed extra point thrown in for good measure. Now sitting at a field goal percentage of 70.8%, Elliott ranks third-worst in the league-only ahead of Younghoe Koo, who’s already been released, and Joshua Karty, who’s been bumped to the Rams’ practice squad.
That’s not the kind of company you want to keep when you’re one year into a four-year extension that runs through 2028.
Elliott’s recent two-miss outing against Washington only added fuel to the fire. And while the Eagles have bigger-picture issues to address this offseason, special teams can’t be overlooked-especially when points are being left on the field. With that in mind, here are five potential options the Eagles could explore if they decide to bring in competition or even move on from Elliott altogether.
Rodrigo Blankenship: A Spring Football Standout Ready for a Second Act
Remember Rodrigo Blankenship? After a promising start with the Colts, injuries derailed his 2021 and 2022 campaigns.
But in 2025, he found new life in the UFL, suiting up for the St. Louis Battlehawks and going 21-for-22, including a 56-yarder.
That performance earned him All-UFL honors and put him back on the NFL radar.
Blankenship has already worked out for multiple NFL teams this season. And with other spring league kickers like Harrison Mevis, Brandon Aubrey, and Jake Bates proving that the pipeline from alternative leagues to the NFL is real, Blankenship could be next in line. For a team like the Eagles, looking for both consistency and affordability, he’s a name worth watching.
Younghoe Koo: A Bounce-Back Candidate with Pro Bowl Pedigree
Yes, Younghoe Koo has had a rough stretch. But from 2019 to 2023, he was one of the most accurate and reliable kickers in the league. Things have gone south recently, leading to his release, but the NFL has a long history of kickers finding new life with a change of scenery.
At this point, bringing in competition might be just what the Eagles need to either push Elliott or find a replacement outright. Koo has the résumé, and if he can recapture even a fraction of his previous form, he could be a low-risk, high-reward option.
Justin Tucker: A Hall of Famer with Something to Prove?
It’s not often you see Justin Tucker’s name on a list like this, but 2024 was a down year for the future Hall of Famer, and a suspension added another wrinkle to his career arc. Still, we’re talking about a kicker with 13 seasons of elite-level consistency under his belt.
Tucker has reportedly worked out for several teams recently, signaling that he’s not done just yet. If he’s healthy and focused, he could be a game-changer-literally. The Eagles would have to weigh the risk, but the potential reward is undeniable.
Riley Patterson: Quietly One of the League’s Most Reliable in 2025
While some kickers have stumbled, Riley Patterson has quietly put together an excellent 2025 campaign, going 24-for-26 and earning recognition as one of the league’s most consistent legs. He’s on a one-year deal, which could make him a hot commodity in free agency this offseason.
The challenge? Cost.
If Patterson commands a multi-year deal with a significant raise, he might be out of the Eagles’ price range. But if the front office wants to make a serious upgrade at kicker, he’s one of the most proven options available.
An Undrafted Rookie in 2026: The Budget-Friendly Wild Card
Every year, a few undrafted kickers come into the league and make a name for themselves. Whether it’s through preseason battles or mid-season call-ups, these players often bring not only fresh legs but also a team-friendly price tag.
For the Eagles, who are always mindful of the cap, bringing in a 2026 UDFA to compete with Elliott could be the most fiscally responsible route. It wouldn’t be flashy, but it might be effective-especially if Elliott’s struggles continue into next season.
What’s Next for Elliott and the Eagles?
Elliott’s recent slump has made one thing clear: the Eagles can’t afford to ignore the kicking game heading into 2026. Whether it’s through open competition, a veteran signing, or a fresh face from the college ranks, Philadelphia needs to weigh its options carefully. Elliott still has time-and a contract-but in the NFL, patience wears thin when points are on the line.
The Eagles have a lot of decisions to make this offseason. Don’t be surprised if the kicker position is one of them.