By: Andrew Parker
It is quite possible the Tennessee Titans found their starting kicker this off-season in former University of Missouri kicker Tucker McCann.
McCann was signed as an undrafted free agent shortly after the 2020 NFL Draft ended. He converted 16 of 22 field goals this past season with a long of 52 yards. McCann also was the team’s starting punter, launching 68 kicks over the course of the season to help boost his versatility.
The Titans will be giving McCann a shot at winning the team’s kicking duties, given that Greg Joseph is the only other kicker on the roster now that long-time kicker Ryan Succop has been released.
I came across a strange stat that might just be the reason McCann was signed and ultimately might win the kicking job. Let’s look at an aspect of the game that is often overlooked by most when it comes to kicking: touchbacks.
The Titans lacked in this department last season, with only 47% of their kickoffs resulting in a touchback. That ranked worst in the NFL.
McCann only had six kicks returned all of last season, and that was good for 90% of his kicks resulting in a touchback. He was among the top 15 kickers in the NCAA in this category.
I know kicking touchbacks will not be the only reason any kicker will ever make an NFL roster, but when you can limit returns from guys like Tyreek Hill in certain situations, you need a guy who can put one through the back of the end zone. Tucker McCann would be your guy.
Cover photo via: Hunter Dyke/Mizzou Athletics
Follow Edge Sports Network on Twitter: @TheEdgeSN
Follow Andrew Parker on Twitter: @AndrewwParkerr
Tell us what you think!