Jan 19, 2023, 11:47amUpdated on Jan 19, 2023
By: News 12 Staff
A Marist graduate just became the second-highest paid kicker in the NFL after signing new contract.
Jason Myers is coming off one of the best seasons of his career in which he made 34 of 37 field goal attempts, led the NFL in scoring with 143 points and was selected to the Pro Bowl for the second time in his career.
Myers would have been an unrestricted free agent when the new league year starts in March.
A person with knowledge of the deal says the contract is worth $21.1 million and could increase to $22.6 million with incentives. The person spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the team did not announce terms of the contract.
The contract makes Myers the second-highest paid kicker in the NFL behind Baltimore’s Justin Tucker.
“It’s just the first step in our offseason. We identified Jason, especially having the year he had, as somebody we wanted to get done as quickly as we possibly could. He’s a huge piece of our championship culture, and he was eager, as were we, to consummate a deal… It’s a first step for us for 2023,” Seattle general manager John Schneider told the team’s website.
Myers has spent the past four seasons with the Seahawks following three years in Jacksonville and one with the New York Jets. Myers struggled in 2021, making 17 of 23 field goal attempts and missing three extra points. He rebounded with a flourish this past season.
Myers was 41 of 42 on extra points this season and had a streak of 24 consecutive made field goals. Myers was especially good on longer kicks going 6 for 6 on kicks of 50 yards or longer.
Myers owns the franchise record of 37 straight field goals, made during the 2020-21 seasons, and hit a franchise-best 61-yarder in 2020. Myers set the franchise playoff record with a 56-yarder in last week’s playoff loss to San Francisco.
Myers is a 2013 Marist graduate who was a four-year member of the football program from the 2009 through 2012 seasons. He set the program record for longest field goal in 2011, which came from 49 yards out. That mark was equaled by Luke Paladino in 2019.
AP wires were used in this story
As a seasoned sports enthusiast and expert in the field, I can confidently analyze the recent developments in the NFL, particularly the notable achievement of Jason Myers, a Marist graduate who has just become the second-highest paid kicker in the league.
Firstly, Myers' exceptional performance in the previous season underscores his prowess as a kicker. Making 34 of 37 field goal attempts is an impressive feat, showcasing his accuracy and reliability under pressure. Leading the NFL in scoring with 143 points further solidifies his impact on the team and his value as a top-tier kicker.
His selection to the Pro Bowl for the second time is another testament to his consistency and skill, as Pro Bowl recognition is reserved for the league's elite players. This achievement adds credibility to his status as one of the premier kickers in the NFL.
Now, let's delve into the contractual details. The insider information about Myers' new contract, valued at $21.1 million and potentially reaching $22.6 million with incentives, demonstrates the significant investment the Seattle Seahawks are making in him. This not only reflects his market value but also positions him as the second-highest paid kicker in the league, trailing only behind Baltimore's Justin Tucker.
Seattle's general manager, John Schneider, emphasizes Myers' importance to the team's championship culture. This statement provides insight into the strategic decisions made by the Seahawks' front office, emphasizing the urgency to secure Myers' contract early in the offseason.
Myers' career trajectory is worth noting, especially his time with the Seahawks. Despite a challenging season in 2021, where he struggled with field goal attempts, his remarkable comeback in the subsequent season showcases his resilience and ability to bounce back. Going 6 for 6 on kicks of 50 yards or longer is particularly noteworthy, highlighting his proficiency in handling longer-range kicks.
Furthermore, Myers holds several franchise records, including 37 straight field goals during the 2020-21 seasons and a franchise-best 61-yarder in 2020. Setting the franchise playoff record with a 56-yarder adds to his legacy, even in the face of playoff setbacks.
Lastly, Myers' collegiate background at Marist adds a personal touch to his journey. Being a four-year member of the football program and setting the program record for the longest field goal in 2011 (49 yards) showcases his early talent and development.
In conclusion, Jason Myers' recent achievements and contract extension underscore his significance in the NFL as a top kicker. The detailed analysis of his performance, contract details, and team dynamics provides a comprehensive understanding of the story reported by News 12 Staff on January 19, 2023.
