The Washington Commanders have made a notable addition to their practice squad by signing veteran kicker Zane Gonzalez, an experienced specialist who has spent time with multiple NFL teams. The move reflects the Commanders’ aim to bolster depth and competition within their special teams unit as the season progresses.
Zane Gonzalez brings a seasoned track record to Washington’s roster. A seventh-round draft pick out of Arizona State in 2017 by the Cleveland Browns, Gonzalez quickly showed promise. During his rookie year, he connected on 15 of 20 field goal attempts and 25 of 26 extra points. His tenure with the Browns was relatively brief, however, as he faced some struggles with consistency in his second season and was subsequently released. Following his time in Cleveland, Gonzalez signed with the Arizona Cardinals, where he found more stability and success over the next two seasons. In Arizona, Gonzalez’s reliability improved, especially during the 2019 season when he converted 31 of his 35 field goal attempts, achieving an impressive 88.6% success rate.
After his time with the Cardinals, Gonzalez continued his NFL journey with stints on the rosters of the Carolina Panthers and the San Francisco 49ers, albeit in a more limited capacity. The Commanders’ decision to bring him onto the practice squad gives them flexibility, as he provides an experienced backup should they need a reliable replacement due to injury or performance concerns with their current kicking unit.
Adding Gonzalez to the roster highlights Washington’s proactive approach to reinforcing critical positions through seasoned personnel. With kickers playing a pivotal role in close games, particularly as teams look toward playoff contention, depth in this role can make a significant difference. The Commanders may look to Gonzalez’s history as a dependable kicker who has endured both highs and lows in his career. Should the need arise, he could step in and bring a level of poise and experience that many young kickers lack.
The signing also reflects a broader trend in the NFL, where teams are increasingly valuing the depth and reliability in special teams positions, knowing that kickers, punters, and long-snappers often play a decisive role late in the season. By bringing Gonzalez to the practice squad, the Commanders not only enhance their kicking options but also gain a seasoned professional who understands the high-stakes environment of the NFL. Whether or not Gonzalez sees active game time, his presence in practice and as a reserve option will be invaluable for the Commanders as they navigate the competitive season.
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