Colts Cut Ties with Kicker Matt Gay: What's Next for the Team?

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Colts try out former Buccaneers kicker Matt Gay
The Indianapolis Colts have made a surprising move by releasing kicker Matt Gay just two years into his NFL record contract. The decision has sent shockwaves throughout the league, leaving fans and analysts wondering what's next for the team.
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The Colts signed Gay to a four-year deal worth up to $22.5 million in 2021, making him one of the highest-paid kickers in the NFL. However, the team has decided to part ways with the 29-year-old kicker, citing the need for a change in their special teams unit.

HIGHLIGHT | Matt Gay's 28-yard field goal extends Colts' lead to 25-19 ...
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What Led to the Decision?

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The Colts' decision to release Gay may have been influenced by his inconsistent performance over the past two seasons. Despite showing promise in his rookie year, Gay struggled with accuracy and reliability, missing several crucial kicks in key games. The team's coaching staff and front office likely felt that it was time to explore other options and bring in a kicker who can provide more stability and consistency.
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Additionally, the Colts may have been motivated by the desire to free up cap space and allocate resources to other areas of the team. By releasing Gay, the Colts will save approximately $3.5 million in cap space, which can be used to sign free agents or extend contracts of existing players.

Matt Gay - Sports Illustrated
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What's Next for the Colts?

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The Colts will now need to find a new kicker to fill the void left by Gay's departure. The team may look to sign a veteran kicker or draft a rookie in the upcoming NFL draft. Some potential options could include free agent kickers such as Graham Gano or Daniel Carlson, or draft prospects like Anders Carlson or Harrison Mevis.
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The Colts will also need to reassess their special teams unit as a whole, looking for ways to improve their overall performance and consistency. This could involve making changes to the coaching staff, signing new players, or adjusting their strategy and approach to special teams play.

The Colts' decision to release Matt Gay is a significant move that will have implications for the team's future. While it's unclear what's next for the Colts, one thing is certain: the team is committed to making changes and improving their performance. As the NFL offseason continues to unfold, fans will be keeping a close eye on the Colts and their efforts to rebuild and revamp their roster.

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