After showing enough promise to beat out incumbent kicker Josh Scobee in training camp, Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Jason Myers had a challenging start to his NFL career on Sunday.
Myers made a 22-yard field goal in the first quarter of Jacksonville's 17-9 loss to the Carolina Panthers, but then missed wide right on a 44-yard attempt in the second quarter. He later missed wide right again on an extra point try just before halftime.
That four-point swing sent the Jaguars to the locker room trailing 10-9, instead of leading 13-10.
“I’m not going to make them all,’’ Myers said, per the Florida-Times Union. “I don’t feel I need to change anything. I’m going to keep doing what I’m doing.’’
The Jaguars have preached patience with Myers, with general manager Dave Caldwell saying late last month the decision to go with the former Arena League kicker wasn't going to result in "a seamless transition." Myers' performance in camp prompted the team to deal Scobee to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for a sixth-round draft choice.
“I’ve just got to check it out on film and get back to work this week,’’ Myers said after the game.
Punter Bryan Anger, who serves as the holder for Myers, said he wasn't worried about the young kicker.
“He’ll be fine,’’ Anger said. “He got a good head on his shoulders. It’s the first game of the season. You can’t focus on too many negatives. He’s been hitting the ball well in camp.’’
Myers also wasn't the only kicker to struggle in Week 1. Scobee, the man he replaced, missed two kicks in Pittsburgh's loss to the New England Patriots last Thursday.
(h/t Florida Times-Union)
