The Baltimore Ravens didn't have much time to find their next kicker after the Atlanta Falcons signed Jake Moody off their practice squad. Fortunately, newly acquired Riley Patterson didn't need a lengthy introduction to the job.
Patterson has been around the NFL long enough to understand the uncertainty that comes with playing his position. He has had to stay ready for opportunities that don't always arrive when expected, and he spoke to that earlier this week when he described how he stayed prepared between teams, continuing to work on his game and maintain his physical condition rather than letting downtime interrupt his routine.
Now, it's almost time to play football. After a quick tryout and an even quicker introduction to his new teammates,
he is preparing to handle the kicking duties in primetime on Monday Night Football against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Patterson worked out for Baltimore on Wednesday afternoon, signed with the team within hours, and was practicing the following day. It's a familiar routine for a kicker who has played for ten NFL teams, but Jesse Minter believes Patterson's experience should help him handle the transition without getting overwhelmed.
Riley Patterson has made a strong impression before his Ravens debut
Minter spoke with the media on Saturday, one final time before Baltimore hosts Los Angeles. Among the topics of conversation was Patterson, and the head coach said the new guy has made a strong impression in his first week with the Ravens, pointing to his track record and ability to perform in different conditions.
"[Riley Patterson] has had a really good week. Again, this is a guy that's made some big kicks [and] that's kicked well. He's obviously been in a bunch of different scenarios. He's kicked in warm weather [and] cold weather. He's made big kicks. I think he made a huge kick late in the season in Pittsburgh at one time. So, that is what it is, and [he is] a guy that's done it — the moment's not going to be too big."
Minter's confidence comes from more than a few encouraging practices. Patterson has experienced the highs and uncertainty of an NFL kicking career, including stretches when he had to wonder whether any team would call and, in essence, if his career was over.
That preparation paid off when Baltimore came calling. Patterson had to get familiar with the team's operation quickly, including working with long snapper Nick Moore and holder Ryan Eckley. There wasn't much time for an extended adjustment period, but the early work has apparently gone well enough to earn the confidence of his head coach and teammates.
Coach Minter didn't stop at praising Patterson's preparation and experience. He also made his expectations very clear.
"I expect him to kick really well for us on Monday."
For Patterson, the opportunity is another chance to show that staying ready matters, even when the next call is difficult to predict. The Ravens need dependable kicking after a week of change at the position, and Minter believes they have found someone who understands what's required when the moment arrives.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Jesse Minter expects Riley Patterson to deliver in Ravens debut Monday
