The Washington Commanders are proving once again that they are not afraid to make quick adjustments, especially when there’s a glaring need for improvement. This time, it’s at the kicker position, following a disappointing Week 1 performance by Cade York. After missing two critical field goals during the Commanders’ 37-20 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sept. 8, York’s stint in Washington came to an abrupt end.
The Commanders quickly moved to sign veteran kicker Austin Seibert, signaling their intent to upgrade immediately. NFL insider Tom Pelissero broke the news on Sept. 9 via his X (formerly Twitter) account:
“The (Commanders) plan to sign veteran kicker Austin Seibert, per source,” Pelissero wrote. “A quick pivot after the Sunday struggles of Cade York, who was released today.”
York, who missed field goals from 56 and 47 yards in the season opener, has struggled to find stability in the NFL. Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fourth round in 2022, York has now bounced around four teams in three seasons. Washington was his latest stop, and his brief tenure exemplifies how crucial consistency is at the kicker position.
“Not Ideal, But We’re Committed to Getting It Right”
Commanders head coach Dan Quinn spoke candidly about the team’s decision to release York, emphasizing the urgency to correct mistakes and move forward.
“It’s certainly not ideal, but it does speak to, if it’s not right you don’t sit pat,” Quinn said in a post-game interview with ESPN. “We will get there. I’m disappointed … but we owe it to everybody to keep digging.”
Washington’s aggressive approach to finding a reliable kicker reflects their broader commitment to improving across the board, even if it means making tough calls early in the season.
Scandal Derails Commanders’ Plans for McManus
The Commanders believed they had secured their kicker for the 2024 season when they signed Brandon McManus to a 1-year, $3.6 million deal. Coming off a solid year with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where McManus made 30 of 37 field goals and was perfect on extra points, the veteran appeared to be the solution for Washington. However, McManus’ time in D.C. was cut short after he was accused of sexual assault in a lawsuit involving two women. While the case was dismissed on procedural grounds, the Commanders chose to part ways with McManus, leaving the door open for other kickers.
Seibert Brings Experience, Records to Washington
Austin Seibert’s arrival in Washington may not be as flashy as McManus’, but his background is impressive. Seibert set an NCAA record with 499 points at Oklahoma before being drafted by the Browns. His NFL career has been a journey across multiple teams, including stints with the Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions, and New York Jets.
While Seibert hasn’t achieved the same level of consistency as some top kickers, his experience and raw talent are assets Washington hopes to capitalize on. Seibert made the Pro Football Writers Association All-Rookie Team in 2019, and his record at Oklahoma shows he can handle high-pressure situations.
Washington’s Long Search for Kicking Stability
The Commanders have faced an ongoing struggle to find a consistent kicker, a dilemma that stretches back decades. Despite punter Tress Way being a two-time Pro Bowler, Washington has not had a Pro Bowl kicker since Chip Lohmiller in 1991, and their last All-Pro kicker was Mark Moseley in 1982. Moseley remains a unique figure in NFL history as the only special teams player to win NFL MVP — an award he claimed during the strike-shortened 1982 season, where he also led Washington to a Super Bowl victory.
Seibert now steps into the role with the pressure of stabilizing a kicking unit that has seen plenty of turnover. If he can prove himself with a few solid performances, he could become the steady hand the Commanders have long sought. But in the fast-paced world of the NFL, nothing is guaranteed.
Conclusion
Washington’s swift move to release Cade York and bring in Austin Seibert shows that the team isn’t willing to settle for mediocrity, especially in the ever-important kicking game. As the season progresses, the Commanders will be hoping that Seibert provides the stability they need to put their kicking woes behind them — and help propel the team toward success.
