For the first time in 15 years, the New England Patriots are entrusting their kicking duties to a rookie.
Undrafted free agent Quinn Nordin defeated veteran incumbent Nick Folk in a training camp battle and will enter the season as the Patriots’ kicker. New England released Folk on Tuesday during final roster cuts.
What pushed Nordin, who went just 10-of-15 on kicks across the Patriots’ three preseason games, past the steady Folk? Special teams coordinator Cam Achord explained Wednesday.
“He had a couple of (rough) days here, but he’s really showed (an ability to) bounce back,” Achord said in a video conference.