Former New Orleans Saints players are all over the NFL by now, predominantly the Denver Broncos with Sean Payton, but still. This is especially true when it comes to special teams, as many of their former kickers and punters have found roles elsewhere in the league, and for many, it has worked to their benefit.
However, it was recently announced that a former Saints player would not win the starting job for an AFC team and instead would be passed over in favor of a long-term NFL veteran. This case is with the New York Jets, as they elected to retain long-time kicker Jason Sanders over Blake Grupe, a three-year starter for the Saints previously.
Sanders and Grupe were both competing for the starting spot during the last few weeks, with Sanders taking
primary duties each week as a practice squad elevation. Sanders started 5 for 6 on field goals to this point, his only miss being a 54-yarder in Week 1.
Grupe, however, did not have the opportunity to kick for the Jets in the regular season, being claimed on waivers following preseason action after Sanders looked hit-or-miss and Cade York did not look great. After going 11-for-11 for the Indianapolis Colts and 10-for-10 on extra points, Grupe will get a longer look on the Jets' practice squad, but he could bolt for a better opportunity if another team needs a kicker.
This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Jets release former Saints kicker without trying a single field goal
