Washington Commanders Kickers: A History

The Washington Commanders, formerly known as the Washington Redskins, have a storied history in the National Football League (NFL). Over the years, many players have contributed to the team's successes and failures. Among these players, the kickers hold a special place, often deciding the outcome of games with their ability to convert crucial field goals and extra points. This article delves into the history of the Washington Commanders kickers, highlighting some of the most memorable and impactful players who have donned the burgundy and gold. From the early days of the franchise to the modern era, we'll explore the highs and lows, the clutch performances, and the challenges faced by those tasked with the pressure-filled job of kicking for one of the NFL's most iconic teams.

Early Years and the Rise of Mark Moseley

The early history of the Washington Commanders kickers is marked by a series of players who, while competent, didn't quite achieve legendary status. In the formative years, the team saw a revolving door of kickers, each trying to solidify their position. However, it wasn't until the arrival of Mark Moseley in 1974 that the team found a truly reliable and impactful kicker. Moseley's career with the Commanders spanned from 1974 to 1986, a period during which he became one of the most beloved and respected players in franchise history.

Moseley's impact extended far beyond just his kicking prowess. He was a symbol of consistency and reliability during a time when the Commanders were striving for Super Bowl contention. His accuracy and mental fortitude under pressure made him a fan favorite and a player his teammates could count on. In 1982, Moseley achieved the pinnacle of his career when he was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player (MVP). This was an unprecedented achievement for a kicker and remains a testament to his exceptional performance and value to the team. During that season, Moseley was nearly perfect, making 20 of 21 field goal attempts and all 32 of his extra-point attempts. His remarkable accuracy played a crucial role in the Commanders' Super Bowl XVII victory over the Miami Dolphins.

Mark Moseley's legacy with the Washington Commanders is cemented not only by his individual accolades but also by his contributions to the team's success. He set numerous franchise records and was a key component of the team's championship-winning squad. His story is a reminder of the significant impact that kickers can have on a team's fortunes and the lasting impression they can leave on fans.

The Post-Moseley Era: Searching for Consistency

Following Mark Moseley's departure, the Washington Commanders entered a period of searching for a consistent and reliable kicker. The team went through a series of players, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, but none were able to replicate Moseley's sustained success. This era highlighted the challenges of finding a kicker who could perform at a high level consistently, especially under the intense pressure of NFL games. While some kickers showed promise, they often struggled with accuracy or consistency, leading to frequent changes in the roster.

One notable kicker during this period was Chip Lohmiller, who played for the team from 1988 to 1994. Lohmiller had some successful seasons and was known for his strong leg, but he also experienced periods of inconsistency. Despite his efforts, he couldn't quite fill the void left by Moseley. Other kickers who donned the burgundy and gold during this time included Eddie Murray and Scott Blanton, each contributing in their own way but ultimately unable to establish themselves as long-term solutions.

The search for a reliable kicker became a recurring theme for the Commanders in the years following Moseley's departure. The team's struggles at the kicking position underscored the importance of having a consistent and accurate kicker, especially in close games where field goals could be the difference between victory and defeat. This period served as a reminder of the high standards set by Moseley and the challenge of finding a worthy successor.

The Emergence of John Hall

In 1999, a new era began for the Washington Commanders kicking game with the arrival of John Hall. Hall quickly established himself as a reliable and consistent kicker, providing stability to a position that had been in flux for years. His tenure with the Commanders lasted from 1999 to 2006, during which he became one of the most accurate and dependable kickers in franchise history. Hall's consistency and clutch performances earned him the respect of his teammates and the admiration of Commanders fans.

John Hall's accuracy was a hallmark of his career with the Commanders. He consistently converted field goals from various distances and was particularly reliable on extra points. His ability to perform under pressure was also a key factor in his success. Hall was known for his calm demeanor and focus, allowing him to execute crucial kicks in critical game situations. His contributions were instrumental in helping the Commanders compete for playoff berths during his time with the team.

Beyond his on-field performance, Hall was also a respected leader in the locker room. His professionalism and work ethic set a positive example for his teammates, and he was often looked to as a source of guidance and support. Hall's impact extended beyond the kicking game, making him a valuable asset to the entire team. His arrival marked a turning point for the Commanders, bringing much-needed stability and consistency to the kicking position.

The Graham Gano Era

After John Hall's departure, the Commanders once again faced the challenge of finding a reliable kicker. Several players tried to fill the role, but it wasn't until Graham Gano arrived in 2009 that the team found a kicker who could provide consistency and a strong leg. Gano's time with the Commanders was marked by both impressive performances and periods of inconsistency, making his tenure a bit of a mixed bag. Nonetheless, he had moments where he proved to be a valuable asset to the team.

Graham Gano was known for his powerful leg, which allowed him to attempt and make long-distance field goals. His ability to connect on kicks from beyond 50 yards was a valuable weapon for the Commanders, giving them a chance to score points even when the offense struggled to move the ball. However, Gano also had his share of struggles with accuracy, particularly on shorter field goals. This inconsistency sometimes frustrated fans and coaches, but his overall contributions to the team were undeniable.

During his time with the Commanders, Gano experienced both highs and lows. He had games where he was perfect, making all of his field goal attempts and extra points. But he also had games where he missed crucial kicks, leading to tough losses. Despite these ups and downs, Gano remained a key part of the Commanders' special teams unit, and his strong leg provided a valuable dimension to the team's kicking game.

Recent Years and the Dustin Hopkins Era

The Commanders' kicking situation continued to evolve in recent years, with the team searching for a kicker who could provide both accuracy and consistency. One of the more notable kickers during this period was Dustin Hopkins, who joined the team in 2015. Hopkins quickly became a reliable option for the Commanders, displaying a strong leg and a knack for making clutch kicks.

Dustin Hopkins brought a sense of stability to the Commanders' kicking game, providing a consistent presence that the team had lacked in previous years. He was known for his accuracy on both field goals and extra points, and he consistently delivered in high-pressure situations. Hopkins' ability to perform under pressure made him a valuable asset to the team, and he quickly earned the trust of his coaches and teammates.

However, even Hopkins experienced periods of inconsistency, and the Commanders eventually decided to move on. Despite his departure, Hopkins left a positive mark on the team, having provided stability and reliability during his tenure. His time with the Commanders underscored the importance of having a consistent kicker and the impact that a reliable kicking game can have on a team's success.

The Modern Landscape

As the NFL continues to evolve, the role of the kicker remains as crucial as ever. The Washington Commanders, now seeking to build a new legacy, understand the importance of having a dependable kicker who can consistently deliver under pressure. The team's history at the position is a testament to the impact that kickers can have on a franchise, and the search for the next great Commanders kicker is an ongoing process.

In today's NFL, kickers are expected to be accurate from long distances and to perform consistently in all types of weather conditions. The pressure on kickers is immense, as they are often called upon to decide the outcome of games with their ability to convert crucial field goals and extra points. The Commanders recognize the significance of this role and are committed to finding a kicker who can meet these demands.

The Commanders' journey through the history of their kickers is a reflection of the team's overall evolution. From the early years to the present day, the kicking position has been a constant source of both excitement and anxiety for fans. As the team moves forward, the search for a reliable and consistent kicker will remain a top priority, as the Commanders strive to achieve their ultimate goal of winning championships.

Conclusion

The history of the Washington Commanders kickers is a fascinating journey through the highs and lows of the NFL. From the legendary Mark Moseley to more recent contributors like Dustin Hopkins, the team has seen a variety of players who have left their mark on the franchise. The kicking position is often overlooked, but its importance cannot be overstated. A reliable kicker can be the difference between victory and defeat, and the Commanders have experienced both the joy of having a consistent kicker and the frustration of struggling to find one.

As the Commanders continue to build for the future, the kicking position will undoubtedly remain a key area of focus. The team's history at the position serves as a reminder of the impact that kickers can have and the importance of finding a player who can consistently deliver under pressure. Whether it's a clutch field goal to win a game or a reliable extra point to secure a lead, the Commanders know that a strong kicking game is essential for success in the NFL. The search for the next great Commanders kicker is an ongoing quest, and fans will be eagerly watching to see who will step up and make their mark on the team's history.