The Minnesota Vikings’ Sophomore Facing a Unique Pressure
Will Reichard still has a lot to prove.
At this point, few (if any) could doubt the kicker’s talent. Reichard can send the ball sailing, an ability that sparks great optimism for his capacity to solidify himself as the team’s long-term K1. Nevertheless, the Vikings’ sophomore specialist is facing the unique pressure that can only be understood by other NFL kickers.
The Vikings’ Sophomore Kicker & The Pressure in ‘25
Flying under the radar is probably what Mr. Reichard prefers.
So far, there has been no shortage of digital ink being spilled on J.J. McCarthy, the No. 10 pick from the same draft. The quarterback understandably gets a lot of the media focus since the Vikings’ leadership has removed all snags and obstacles that could hinder his ascent to the QB1 spot.
Undoubtedly, Mr. McCarthy is facing pressure.
So, too, does Dallas Turner have a lot to prove (especially once capturing a full glimpse of the trade cost). Sooner rather than later, Turner needs to become an on-field menace. Inspiring fear in opposing OTs, QBs, and OCs is the goal as the young EDGE proves to be a handful on a down-to-down basis.
But then there’s Will Reichard, the team’s starting kicker who was one of the rare specialists to demand a draft pick. The Alabama alumnus got scooped up at No. 203, a high placement for a kicker.
His rookie season began scorching hot, making kicks with ease from any and all distances. The major hiccup coincided with getting hurt, leading to a placement on the IR and then some inconsistency once stepping back onto the field.
So, some adversity.
Adversity, like fire, can go in different directions. Some can walk through the fire and get purified; yes, it’s painful, but the product is better at the end. Others work through the fire and get destroyed, never recovering and always bearing the adversity’s scars. Which way will Reichard go?
In thirteen games in 2024, Reichard went 24/30 on field goals, which works out to converting on 80% of his kicks. Keep in mind that a trio of those misses came from 50+. Remember, as well, that his longest kick went for 58 yards, so he does have the leg strength to drill ‘em from distance.
Finally, note that he was flawless on extra points, going a perfect 38/38 for a very simple percentage sitting at 100%. The kid needs to improve on the FGs while then seeking to replicate the XPs.
He is 24, meaning there could be a decade (or more) of good football left in him. The Vikings are hoping that’s the case and that he offers that football while wearing purple and gold.
Editor’s Note: Information from Pro Football Reference helped with this piece.
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