MMinnesota Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah chose Alabama kicker Will Reichard in the draft last week, going against his usual focus on analytics.
The data indicates that drafting a kicker doesn't necessarily offer better efficiency compared to an undrafted one, which means the Vikings used a sixth-round pick on Reichard with little added value.
“Other than Justin Tucker, a kicker for Sumer Sports, suggested that even highly-skilled kickers like him are only marginally better than an average player in that position, contributing to roughly 0.3 more wins per year. This was written by Eric Eager before the draft.
Reichard, the NCAA's all-time leading scorer, aims to demonstrate that the Vikings made the right choice by being an exception to the statistical trend.
Out of 34 kickers who attempted 100 or more field goals in college, Reichard offers a larger sample size that Adofo-Mensah and his analytics department considered when selecting him. At Alabama, he made 274 of 275 extra points and successfully converted 86% of his field-goal attempts.
However, beyond the statistics, Reichard's character might be the primary reason the Vikings invested in him.
Blue-chip edge rusher Dallas Turner, chosen 17th overall by the Vikings, spoke highly of his kicker, who has experience in high-pressure situations in the SEC under a demanding coach like Nick Saban.
“They got a cold-blooded sniper: that’s that man, Will Reichard,” Turner told Paul Allen on KFAN’s #92Noon show on April 29. “Will’s been my kicker ever since I been in college, so that’s all I know. Will is definitely cold-blooded, for sure. He shows up every single time you need him.”
Vikings Bet on Will Reichard’s Character
GettyAlabama Crimson Tide kicker Will Reichard.
Kickers often find themselves isolated from the rest of the football team due to the cerebral nature, focus and superstition that comes with the position.
But Reichard differs from the typical kicker, choosing to step up as a leader and not shying away from the challenges of his role.
“Kickers can be perceived as disconnected from their team, and that's not what I wanted to be,” Reichard stated, according to Purple Insider.
“I wanted to be somebody that was deeply connected with the team. Being a leader at Alabama greatly helped me, as it allowed me to build connections with other players, support them, and be their biggest cheerleader when they're on the field… As a kicker, everyone can see your work ethic, and I believe that they respect those who work hard, regardless of their position.”
Vikings college scout Steve Sabo acknowledged Reichard’s leadership from his teammates at Alabama when he asked about it in top-30 visits.
“We had a couple Alabama players come through on 30 visits, so every time one came through, I’d make sure I peel off and say, ‘Hey man, what do you think about Will?’ And first they get kind of shocked and like, ‘Oh my God.’ I felt he was a part of that team, he’s not an isolated player,” Sabo told Purple Insider.
Reichard is entering the Vikings offseason program and will be competing with a former UFL kicker. John Parker Romo.
Alabama's Final Game highlights Will Reichard's performance
GettyAlabama's appearance in the 2024 Rose Bowl was celebrated by Will Reichard.
Last season, Reichard successfully made all 5 kicks from 50 yards or more, including two in the national championship semifinals. Michigan.
Reichard was able to convert from 50 and 52 yards out in high-pressure situations. The 50-yard kick in the first half cut the Wolverines’ lead to three points with 7 seconds left, while the 52-yard kick forced overtime with five minutes left in the game.
According to Purple Insider, special teams coordinator Matt Daniels said, “The most important thing is how he performed in pressure situations, game-winning kicks. He had a 50-yarder and a 52-yarder in the Rose Bowl versus Michigan, which were probably two of the biggest kicks in the entire playoff series. He went through his process and what I love most about it is that he had a 50-yarder and a 52-yarder with consistent ball strike.”
