Commanders Sign Matt Gay, Release Zane Gonzalez

The Washington Commanders have signed veteran kicker Matt Gay to a one-year, fully guaranteed deal worth over $4.25 million, setting a record for single-year kicker contracts. Gay, recently released by the Indianapolis Colts after two seasons and a $22.5 million contract, replaces Zane Gonzalez, who was released by Washington. The Commanders used four different kickers last season due to injuries and inconsistency and hope Gay will bring stability, despite his recent struggles from long range. In 2023, Gay converted 31 of 37 field goals, with all misses from beyond 50 yards, and was perfect on extra points, maintaining an 85.5% career field goal rate. The Colts will incur a $4 million dead money charge from Gay's release and have named Spencer Shrader as their new kicker. Washington continues to prioritize reliability at the kicker position after frequent recent changes.