The Washington Commanders released placekicker Cade York on Monday after he missed two field goals in the team's 37-20 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. York's tenure in Washington was short-lived, as he had been acquired in a trade with the Cleveland Browns just over a month ago.
Cade York's NFL career took a hit on Monday when he was released by the Washington Commanders following a disappointing performance in the season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The former fourth-round pick missed two field goals, a 56-yarder and a 47-yarder, in Washington's 37-20 defeat.
Washington Commanders Cut Cade York After Brutal Opening Game
York's struggles highlighted the intense competition and cutthroat nature of the NFL. Despite making the roster out of training camp, he was unable to secure his spot on the team after failing to deliver in the first game of the season.
York's release from Washington marked the latest chapter in a rollercoaster NFL journey. After being drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2022, he missed 24 of his 32 field goal attempts during his rookie campaign. He lost the kicking battle to Dustin Hopkins in training camp last year and bounced around the league before being acquired by the Commanders.
Washington Commanders Cut Cade York After Brutal Opening Game
York's release is just one chapter in the ongoing saga of Washington's kicking woes. The team has struggled to find a reliable kicker since letting Joey Slye go in free agency. Brandon McManus was cut in May after a lawsuit alleging sexual assault, while Ramiz Ahmed and Riley Patterson were released during training camp.
With York gone, the Commanders are expected to sign Austin Seibert to fill the void at kicker. Seibert previously played for the Browns and the Las Vegas Raiders, converting 78.6% of his field goal attempts during his career.
Washington Commanders Cut Cade York After Brutal Opening Game
Commanders head coach Dan Quinn expressed disappointment over York's release, but acknowledged that the team needed to find a more reliable option at kicker.
York's future in the NFL remains uncertain. Despite showing some promise during his short stint in Cleveland, his recent struggles raise questions about his ability to be a long-term solution at kicker.
York's release is a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the NFL. Even for players who make it onto the roster, job security is fleeting if they fail to perform.
With Austin Seibert expected to take over the kicking duties, the Commanders hope to stabilize their kicking situation and improve their overall performance on the field.
As York looks for a new opportunity elsewhere, the Commanders will continue their search for a reliable kicker who can help them contend in the NFC East and beyond.
