Jake Elliott missed another field goal in Week 18. His second-worst statistical season has ended, but don’t fret. Philadelphia Eagles head coach …

Jake Elliott missed another field goal in Week 18, capping off what was arguably his second-worst statistical season since becoming the Philadelphia Eagles’ kicker. While the miss raised eyebrows and fueled some concerns, it’s important to put his season into context. Despite the rocky finish, there’s reason to believe Elliott can bounce back and regain his form in the coming seasons.

Elliott’s 2024 campaign has been marred by inconsistency. Throughout the year, he missed key field goals in crucial moments—none more noticeable than his Week 18 miss, which drew the most attention. However, these struggles shouldn’t overshadow the fact that Elliott has a track record of success with the Eagles. He has been a reliable presence for the team since his game-winning field goal in Super Bowl LII and has generally been solid during the regular season.

It’s worth noting that Elliott’s struggles this season came amid a few external factors. First and foremost, the Eagles’ offensive rhythm was occasionally disrupted, which meant more pressure was placed on Elliott for longer kicks and higher-stakes opportunities. Moreover, the kicking game is often influenced by environmental factors like weather conditions, snap timing, and even changes in personnel around the kicker. All of these can make consistency a challenge.

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni has remained supportive of his kicker, emphasizing that mistakes are part of the game. “Jake has been a key part of our team for a long time,” Sirianni said following the Week 18 game. “One miss doesn’t define him, and we know he has the mental fortitude to bounce back.” This support is vital, especially for a position where mental toughness is paramount.

Sirianni’s message is consistent with the philosophy that Elliott isn’t just a kicker; he’s a valuable part of the locker room. The veteran kicker has shown resilience in the past, and he’s done so under much higher-pressure scenarios. While this season might not have been his best, it’s crucial to remember that the NFL is a league full of ups and downs, particularly for players in highly specialized roles.

In terms of his future, Elliott’s contract status should provide additional comfort to Eagles fans. He remains under contract with the team for the coming years, so there’s no immediate threat to his position. Additionally, the Eagles have shown confidence in his abilities over the years, and with a strong offseason to regroup, there’s every reason to believe Elliott can return to form.

Ultimately, one bad season doesn’t define an NFL kicker’s career. Jake Elliott has the skills and the mental toughness to bounce back from this slump. And with the support of his coaches and teammates, there’s no reason to believe his next season won’t be more in line with his usual high standards.