The New York Jets are retooling their special teams unit ahead of training camp. The team signed kicker Harrison Mevis, formerly of the UFL’s Birmingham Stallions, and waived veteran kicker Anders Carlson in a corresponding move.
Mevis impressed during his time in the UFL, converting 20 of 21 field goal attempts. The 23-year-old showed strong consistency inside 50 yards and drilled a 54-yarder. Nicknamed the “Thiccer Kicker,” Mevis now gets another shot at the NFL after previously signing with Carolina in 2024.
Harrison Mevis Earns Another NFL Shot
Harrison Mevis has quietly built one of the more decorated resumes for a young kicker. He started turning heads in college at Missouri, where he made 86 of 103 field goal attempts. He also converted 45 of 46 extra point tries and broke the program scoring record with 405 points.
In 2023, Mevis delivered one of the biggest moments in Tigers’ history. His 61-yard game-winner against Kansas State set a new SEC distance record. That kick put him on the radar of scouts and eventually helped him earn a Combine invite in 2024.
His recent UFL season only elevated his profile. Mevis finished third among all kickers in total points with 60. He connected on 95.2% of his attempts and missed just once—from an ambitious 63 yards.
Why the Jets Made the Move
The Jets are clearly seeking reliability and range from the kicker position. Carlson showed flashes in five appearances but left points on the board. His 80% field goal rate and 81.8% extra point success raised questions about long-term trust.
Mevis offers both leg strength and accuracy, which gives him a shot at sticking. He brings a power component that fans noticed immediately in college. His ability to consistently convert inside 50 yards could be a game-changer for close matchups.
With special teams often swinging close games, the Jets needed an upgrade. Mevis’ track record and recent UFL success suggest he can deliver when called upon. Carlson, though talented, simply didn’t provide the consistency New York needs.
Kicking Battle Looms in Camp
Although Harrison Mevis is the only kicker currently on the roster, competition could still arrive. Teams often bring in additional specialists to push newcomers through camp and preseason. Mevis will need to earn his spot the hard way.
However, the early signs are promising. His college and UFL numbers show a kicker who handles pressure. He brings a calm presence and an NFL-caliber leg, something Jets fans haven’t seen consistently in recent years.
With a young, competitive roster taking shape, the Jets hope Mevis can fill a key role. If he continues his accurate ways, he could lock down the job well before Week 1.
Final Thoughts
Harrison Mevis is more than just a fun nickname. The “Thiccer Kicker” brings real production, polish, and personality to a Jets team that desperately needs steadiness at kicker.
By signing Mevis and waiving Carlson, the Jets have made their expectations clear. They’re looking for consistency, range, and a kicker who can deliver when the game is on the line.
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