Jets Work Out 8-Time All-Pro Kicker Ahead of 2026 Season

The New York Jets are evaluating their kicker position as they brought in eight-time All-Pro Justin Tucker for a workout on Wednesday. The Jets also worked out Michael Badgley and Josh Karty.

New York claimed Blake Grupe off waivers the other day, and they have Jason Sanders on the practice squad. 

The Jets are clearly having a competition on who will be their starting kicker for Week 1, but they have some talented options.

Tucker is one of the most decorated kickers of all time, having been recognized as the best at his position. However, Tucker hasn't appeared in a game since the 2024 season, when he had a down year, making 22 of 30 field goal attempts and 60 of 62 extra point attempts.

He also faced off-field issues, as the NFL suspended him for 10 games for violating its personal conduct policy following allegations of inappropriate behavior.

The 36-year-old has been reinstated and can return to play if he gets an opportunity with a team like the Jets.

However, New York may opt for one of their other options, with Grupe likely being the favorite after they claimed him.

Grupe has been solid in the first three years of his career, making 86 of 105 field goal attempts and 96 of 98 extra point attempts. He hasn't been the best kicker in the league, but he could be a quality piece on their roster.

With multiple solid options at kicker, the Jets' special teams unit could be a quality in the 2026 season. New York should be an improved team in the upcoming year as they went 3-14 in 2025 and have added a plethora of young talent this offseason.

The Jets drafted some quality young weapons, including tight end Kenyon Sadiq and wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., and added talented pieces on defense as well, including David Bailey.

New York's strong core may not be ready to compete for a playoff spot right away, but head coach Aaron Glenn's group should be much improved and be more competitive in the 2026 season.