Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Commanders may have quietly solved glaring problem without even trying at camp

Originally posted on Riggo's Rag | By Dean Jones | Last updated Aug 5, 2025 8:00 AM ET

Although momentum was extremely high within the Washington Commanders heading into training camp, there were a couple of concerns that fans were hoping would be alleviated. General manager Adam Peters may have quietly solved one without even trying.

Peters might be trying to figure out the contract standoff between the Commanders and wide receiver Terry McLaurin, but it's the only real blemish of his tenure so far. The front-office leader is a ruthless roster builder who always puts the team's best interests at the forefront. He's also not afraid to strike with conviction when possible upgrades can be found.

That proved to be the case this offseason at the kicking position. Zane Gonzalez was given a new one-year deal by the organization. Fans thought he'd be the starter, but Peters pivoted quickly when another experienced veteran became available on the open market.

Matt Gay instantly brought stability to kicking spot at Commanders training camp

The Commanders made Matt Gay an offer he couldn't refuse. This also came with the most guaranteed money of any NFL kicker on a one-year deal in league history. It was a calculated risk by Peters, but the early signs suggest that it's going to pay off handsomely.

Gay has been lights out from the moment he got into the building. Those in attendance over Washington's offseason program and training camp noted his consistency at every level of the field. The former Utah college standout has been automatic, barely putting a foot wrong during a seamless transition to a different environment.

Matt Gay just drilled 50 and 55 yard field goals to end a kicking period. He’s been nearly automatic all camp.
— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) August 4, 2025

Even though the life of an NFL kicker can change drastically (and quickly), Gay couldn't have done more to make a good first impression.

Washington is expected to go deep into the playoffs once again in 2025. Many of their games were decided by razor-thin margins last season. If Gay can provide stability and come through in the biggest moments, that's only going to help the Commanders' cause.

All it takes is a couple of wayward efforts in the regular season for doubts to creep in. Gay's career field goal percentage of 85.5 is pretty solid, but there were concerns that his leg strength was waning last season with the Indianapolis Colts. Peters thought there was still some good football left, and this faith has been repaid over Washington's preparations for the upcoming campaign.

What comes next is much more important. But if Gay continues to remain poised, calm, and accurate when his number is called, this could be the stable kicking presence the Commanders have craved for years.