Commanders Release Kicker Matt Gay Following Costly Misses

In a stunning move, the Washington Commanders have parted ways with kicker Matt Gay just one day after he missed two field goals—including what would have been a game-winning 56-yarder—in a 16-13 overtime loss to the Miami Dolphins in Madrid. The decision highlights the team's frustration with inconsistent kicking and its urgent need for stability at the position.

The Madrid Meltdown

Gay's performance in Spain proved to be his final act as a Commander. He missed a 51-yard attempt earlier in the game before shanking the potential game-winner with 15 seconds left in regulation. After the loss, Gay took full responsibility, stating that "100 percent of the blame for the loss falls on me." Despite his accountability, the front office had seen enough.

Quinn's Calculated Change

Head coach Dan Quinn addressed the move during his Monday press conference, emphasizing that the decision wasn't solely based on one game. "We wanted it to work long term. It wasn't one game," Quinn explained. He further described the release as "the change we needed," signaling a broader strategic shift to reset the team's kicking struggles.

Beyond One Game: Gay's Struggles in Washington

While Sunday's misses were the catalyst, Gay's tenure with Washington was marred by inconsistency. In 11 games, he converted just 13 of 19 field goals (68.4%), ranking 32nd among qualified NFL kickers. His performance from beyond 50 yards was particularly alarming: 4-of-9 attempts, mirroring his 6-of-9 struggles from 50+ yards with the Indianapolis Colts last season.

Gay's $4.25 million guaranteed salary—the highest ever for a one-year kicker—made the investment look increasingly questionable. His departure marks the eighth kicker signed since GM Adam Peters arrived in January 2024.

Enter Jake Moody: The Next Man Up

To replace Gay, the Commanders are signing kicker Jake Moody off the Chicago Bears' practice squad. Moody, who was released by the 49ers earlier this season, brings fresh momentum: He made 8 of 9 field goals for the Bears and famously booted a game-winning kick against Washington in Week 6.

What This Means for Washington

The release comes amid the Commanders' sixth consecutive loss, exposing deeper issues beyond kicking. However, Quinn's focus on special teams underscores how critical reliability is in close games. With Moody now onboard, the team hopes to end its kicking carousel and stabilize a position that has cost them multiple victories this season.

Gay, a seven-year veteran with an 84% career field goal percentage, now becomes an immediate free agent. For Washington, the gamble on Moody represents a last-ditch effort to salvage a season spiraling out of control.

"This is the change we needed." — Dan Quinn, Washington Commanders Head Coach