This season, the New England Patriots have had trouble coming up with standout scoring plays, and their most recent 30–13 loss to the San Francisco 49ers was no different. Only one touchdown and two field goals were scored by the team, but one of those kicks stood out.
Joey Slye‘s 63-yard field goal at the end of the first half was one of the highlights of the 2024 season and set a franchise record for the longest kick. Slye was unhappy with his performance in spite of this accomplishment.
After the game, he stated, “I am happy about the individual success there, but I want to contribute to a win for the team.” “My personal success does not mean much if we do not win.”
Slye had a difficult journey in the NFL as an undrafted free agent from Virginia Tech in 2018. He spent his first five seasons as a player for five different teams, including a 2021 stint with the 49ers. Despite playing in 78 games between 2019 and 2023, he had trouble settling in. His 2024 season started in Jacksonville, but after being cut, he joined the Patriots in May.
Slye faced competition from Chad Ryland for the kicking spot in New England, a position he ultimately secured with a strong performance during training camp. As head coach Jerod Mayo put it, sitting Slye ahead of Ryland was an easy choice.
With a record-breaking 63-yard field goal and a 54-yarder, Slye showed off his range. This season, he is now 8 for 9 on field goals and 3 for 3 on extra points.