The Washington Football Team has released embattled kicker Dustin Hopkins. Coming off his worst season last year, Hopkins’ struggles continued through the first six games of the season.
He missed two field goals this season, including a 42-yard attempt in Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs that helped change the complexion of the game. He also missed two extra points against the Atlanta Falcons that nearly cost them the game.
Hopkins’ issues the past two seasons have been him kicking field goals from long distance. He missed six of 40 yards or more last year. His struggles showed in preseason this year, making just 1-of-4 kicks over 40 yards.
That trickled into the regular season. In Week 2 Hopkins missed a 48-yard field goal on the final play that should have lost Washington the game against the New York Giants. But an offside penalty on the Giants gave him a reprieve, as he made the game-winning 43-yarder.
Washington head coach Ron Rivera maintained confidence in Hopkins throughout his struggles. But, it’s come to a head.
To replace Hopkins, Washington signed Chris Blewitt from the practice squad. Blewitt has not kicked during a regular season NFL game.
