The conversation around the Los Angeles Rams’ kicking situation has brought a fascinating strategic debate to the forefront. As second-year kicker Joshua Karty navigates the pressures of the NFL, some have questioned if his use of the specialized knuckleball kickoff is affecting his field goal mechanics.
This has led to a compelling idea, recently championed by Pat McAfee, who suggested on his show, “Why not have the punter handle the knuckleball kickoffs? Let him be the specialist for that one kick, and let your kicker focus on just being a sniper for field goals.”
It’s an intriguing solution, but is it the right one? Let’s explore the arguments.
The Case for the Punter: Protecting the Primary Weapon
The logic behind McAfee’s idea is simple: the field goal swing is a sacred, finely-tuned motion. Anything that could potentially interfere with its muscle memory is a liability.
One of the most overlooked aspects of this situation is Karty’s use of a knuckleball for kickoffs. While this is an impressive skill designed to make returns difficult, it’s fair to question if this specialized technique could be interfering with his field goal mechanics.
Think of it this way: a field goal swing is like a golfer’s putting stroke—a precise, repeatable motion designed for a predictable, end-over-end roll. A knuckleball kickoff, on the other hand, is a completely different swing, designed to eliminate spin and create an unpredictable flight path.
By offloading this duty to the punter, a team could, in theory, allow their placekicker to focus solely on the singular, crucial motion of kicking field goals and extra points.
The Counterargument: An NFL Kicker’s Job Description
While the idea is intriguing, it overlooks a key reality: being an NFL kicker is about mastering and compartmentalizing multiple techniques. Look no further than Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey, who has become one of the most automatic kickers in the league. He frequently uses a knuckleball on kickoffs to limit returns, yet it has had no discernible negative effect on his field goal kicking, where he has been nearly perfect.
This proves that it is possible to handle both duties. The expectation for a professional at this level is the ability to master multiple swings for different situations—a standard swing for extra points, a more powerful swing for long field goals, and a specific motion for onside kicks. The knuckleball kickoff is just another tool in that toolbox.
Ultimately, solving the LA Rams’ kicking woes means looking beyond just the kicker’s swing. Other issues could be at play, such as a protection breakdown on the interior of the line or a slow operation time from the snapper, to the holder, to the kick. Before making any drastic changes, the Rams should consider bringing in an experienced kicking guru as a consultant. A fresh set of expert eyes could quickly diagnose the root of the problem—whether it’s technical, operational, or mental—and help get the entire unit back on track.
Kicking System 
Leave a comment