Brief

Jason Sanders rebounds to secure kicking role for New York Jets

Sanders has made eight of nine field goals and seven of eight extra points since returning from injury, according to the New York Post.

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 16 Oct 2026 09:20:23 GMT

Jason Sanders, the New York Jets placekicker, has re‑established himself as the team’s primary kicker after a season‑ending hip injury and a rocky preseason, the New York Post reported.

What happened

Sanders missed all of last season because of a hip injury suffered while with the Miami Dolphins. He signed with the New York Giants in March, was released in June, and then joined the Jets after they let veteran Nick Folk leave in free agency. During training camp he faced competition from Cade York, a tryout by former All‑Pro Justin Tucker, and a brief waiver claim on Blake Grupe, who was later re‑signed to the Jets’ practice squad.

What the reports add

The Post notes that Sanders has converted eight of nine field‑goal attempts and seven of eight extra‑point tries this season, including a season‑best 54‑yard field goal in the fourth quarter of the Jets’ win over the Cleveland Browns on Oct. 11. It also mentions that he missed a 54‑yard attempt in Week 1 against Tennessee, which contributed to doubts about his job security.

What was said

Sanders told the Post, “It’s just part of the game. If you’re not making kicks, they’re gonna try and find someone that will.” He added, “It’s good to be back out there and prove myself again… I can feel the confidence growing.” Special‑teams coordinator Chris Banjo said, “The way he’s been going about it on a day‑to‑day basis, you kind of feel the confidence from him and that makes us confident too.”

How it came about

After being released by the Giants, Sanders entered a Jets roster that had already seen turnover at the kicker position, with the team signing former Dolphins All‑Pro and later releasing him before re‑signing him following the waiver claim on Grupe. His recent performance has solidified his role as the only kicker the Jets need at this time.

Key facts

Sanders missed the 2025 season with a hip injury (nypost.com)
He has made eight of nine field goals and seven of eight extra points this season (nypost.com)
Sanders hit a 54‑yard field goal in the fourth quarter of the Jets' win over the Browns on Oct. 11, 2026 (nypost.com)
Special‑teams coordinator Chris Banjo praised Sanders' confidence (nypost.com)