Zane Gonzalez: Miami Dolphins Stick with Kicker After Daniel Carlson Workout

The High-Stakes Game of NFL Special Teams

In the NFL, the position of kicker is often a precarious one, where a few missed field goals can lead to a sudden change in personnel. This week, the Miami Dolphins put this tension on full display by hosting veteran kicker Daniel Carlson for a workout, sparking speculation about the future of Zane Gonzalez.

While the workout was impressive, the outcome provides a clear short-term answer for Miami’s special teams strategy.

Daniel Carlson’s Perfect Session vs. The Cold Reality

According to reports from Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, Daniel Carlson didn’t miss a beat during his session, converting all 12 of his attempts. On paper, a 100% success rate is exactly what any coach wants. However, perfection in a workout doesn’t always translate to a contract.

Despite the flawless performance, the Dolphins opted not to sign Carlson. This decision is likely rooted in Carlson’s recent trajectory. While he boasts two All-Pro selections during his tenure with the Raiders, his efficiency has been on a steady decline for six consecutive years, hitting a low of 66.7% during his brief stint with the New Orleans Saints this season.

Why Zane Gonzalez Remains the Choice

For now, Zane Gonzalez remains the man in charge of the kicking duties in Miami. Gonzalez stepped in during the Week 6 bye, replacing Riley Patterson after the team struggled with kickoff consistency.

Looking at the numbers, Gonzalez has had a mixed start with the Dolphins:

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• Field Goal Percentage: 71.4% (5 of 7).
• Extra Points: 100% (5 of 5).
• Long Range: Successfully converted both attempts from 50+ yards.

While 71.4% is below his career average and his 86.4% mark from his time in Atlanta, his reliability from distance has kept him in the conversation. You can track the latest NFL player statistics to see how Gonzalez compares to the rest of the league.

The Roster Hurdle: From Practice Squad to the 53-Man

There is a logistical catch to Gonzalez’s current status. He is currently signed to the practice squad and has exhausted his “game day elevations.” This means that for the Dolphins to continue utilizing Zane Gonzalez in upcoming matchups, the front office must officially promote him to the active 53-man roster.

This move will require the team to cut another player, highlighting just how valuable a reliable leg is in the quest for a playoff run.

Final Thoughts

The NFL is a business of trends. While Daniel Carlson has the superior career resume, his recent decline made him a risky bet. By sticking with Gonzalez, the Dolphins are betting on stability and recent long-range success. Whether Gonzalez can elevate his percentage to match his career norms will be crucial for Miami’s success in tight games.

For more updates on roster moves and team news, stay tuned to the ESPN NFL section.