The Indianapolis Colts have decided to part ways with kicker Matt Gay, the team confirmed today. Gay's release comes two years after he inked a lucrative deal, setting a record for the highest-paid kicker in NFL history at the time, according to WISH-TV. His contract was a four-year agreement worth $22.5 million when he signed on as a free agent in 2023.
Gay's performance, however, has been inconsistent during his tenure with the Colts. Despite a promising start which included a memorable game in Baltimore, he struggled particularly with long-distance kicks, hitting only 11 out of 22 from 50+ yards in his two seasons, as reported by FOX59. His stats dipped even further in 2024, making just 3 of 9 from that range.
Now at 31, and after a less-than-stellar performance that saw him convert 48 of his last 60 attempts, the Colts are opting to create some cap space. They're likely looking for a fresh start at the kicker position heading into training camp. Spencer Shrader is currently the only kicker listed on the Colts' roster and has only attempted five field goals in his NFL career so far, as detailed in the team's announcement.
The decision to move on from Gay suggests the Colts are unwilling to gamble on his ability to overcome injuries and reclaim his long-distance prowess, the IndyStar notes. Rather than bet on a 31-year-old kicker to put the injuries behind him, and return to long-distance form, the Colts will clear some cap space and try a new path at kicker. Shrader, who's had intermittent stints with the Colts, may find this an opportunity to establish himself more firmly on the roster.
The Colts are expected to tackle their kicking game in the upcoming training camp, seeking to fill the vacancy left by Gay's discharge. They have not yet indicated if they will bring in additional kickers to compete for the role or if Shrader will be the sole contender.
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