The New York Jets recently brought back a familiar face when they signed veteran kicker Nick Folk in a late offseason move.
Despite the ultimate nostalgia this move provides fans, the question still must be asked: Why did Gang Green reunite with the 40-year-old kicker?
On Wednesday, special teams coordinator Chris Banjo explained the rationale behind the decision, emphasizing Folk’s value to the special teams unit.
“If you look at Nick just over the last two years specifically, obviously, he’s had a long, long run; but if you look at him the last two years, and what he’s been able to do in the situations he’s been able to do it in, I think that speaks volumes,” Banjo told reporters after Thursday’s practice. “I don’t think it’s a secret what this building went through from a kicking perspective last year. So, anytime you can get somebody like that—[who’s] still available—I think that can end up helping the team in taking a step in the right direction.”
As Banjo stated, Folk has been one of the league’s most efficient kickers in the past two seasons despite entering his 40s.
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Over the last two seasons, the 40-year-old Folk has led the league with a 96.2% field goal conversion rate.
In 2024, he nailed all six of his attempts from 50 yards or more, including a season-long 56-yarder. He went 21-for-22 overall and didn’t miss a single extra point, converting all 25 tries.
After dropping multiple close games last season due to missed kicks, the New York Jets know they can’t afford the same mistakes in 2025, and consistency will prove pivotal to the team’s 2025 campaign.
Chris Banjo is hoping Nick Folk delivers that sought-after consistency.