Colts head coach makes emphatic statement on kicker's preseason struggles

It has not been an encouraging preseason for Indianapolis Colts kicker Matt Gay.

Through two games, Gay has missed three field-goal attempts. Two of those attempts have come from more than 50 yards.

The Colts made a surprising move last offseason signing Gay to a four-year deal worth $22.5 million with $13 million guaranteed. He's paid to make those long kicks with consistency.

Asked whether the Colts have any concerns about Gay's struggles during the preseason, head coach Shane Steichen made an emphatic statement.

“I don't. I really don't. He's a pro. I think it's going to be just fine. We'll be fine there," Steichen told reporters Saturday.

With an average annual value of $5.625 million, Gay is the fourth highest-paid kicker in the NFL entering the 2024 season. He has a $5.92 million cap hit as well.

It was a bit of an up-and-down season for Gay during the 2023 campaign. His 80.5% field-goal percentage was the lowest mark since his rookie season. Of his eight missed field-goal attempts, five of them came from 50 or more yards.

The 2021 Pro Bowler has enjoyed a strong start to his career, but he needs to prove he can get back to that stellar level with a bounce-back season.

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