The Las Vegas Raiders have added kicker depth by signing former Hawai’i standout Kansei Matsuzawa as an undrafted free agent after the 2026 NFL Draft, signaling a competition for the starting job. Matsuzawa, nicknamed “Tokyo Toe,” will contend with veteran Matt Gay, who the Raiders secured in free agency, with the expectation that Gay must earn the role against the new challenger.
Key details:
– Matsuzawa’s move was announced after the draft, marking his transition to the NFL with the Raiders.
– The Raiders previously released Daniel Carlson as part of a shift that led to signing Matt Gay; Matsuzawa now aims to beat Gay for the kicker position.
– The story is framed as an ongoing competition, with Matsuzawa’s challenge to the veteran adding an intriguing dynamic to the Raiders’ special teams unit.
Key Takeaways:
– Matsuzawa joins the Raiders as an undrafted free agent to compete for the kicker spot.
– Matt Gay remains a strong contender, and the coaching staff will evaluate both kickers through the offseason and into the regular season.
